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The Asia Cup 2023 is intensifying as Pakistan and Bangladesh clashed in the Super Four stage opening game at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. With the tournament reaching its crucial phase, each match among the four teams holds significant importance.
In this encounter, Pakistan secured their second victory in the Asia Cup 2023 and their first in the Super Four stage by defeating Bangladesh by seven wickets. Bangladesh won the toss and chose to bat first, but their batters struggled against Pakistan’s formidable pace attack. By the end of the powerplay, Bangladesh had lost four wickets for a mere 47 runs.
However, Mushfiqur and Shakib al Hasan, two experienced Bangladeshi batters, formed a solid 100-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Returning to the team, Faheem Ashraf dismissed Shakib al Hasan, breaking their partnership. Bangladesh found themselves at 147/5 and subsequently collapsed, getting bowled out for just 193 runs. Among the Bangladeshi batsmen, Mushfiqur and Shakib were the highest scorers with 64 and 53 runs, respectively.
Haris Rauf delivered a magnificent performance with the ball for Pakistan, claiming 4/19 in his six overs, and he received valuable support from Naseem Shah, who took three wickets.
Chasing a modest target of 194, Pakistan faced an early setback when they lost opener Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam was dismissed for just 17 runs. However, Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammed Rizwan showcased brilliant batting, guiding Pakistan to victory by seven wickets. Imam-ul-Haq played a match-winning innings of 78 runs, while Rizwan remained unbeaten on 63*.
Haris Rauf was named the Player of the Match for his exceptional bowling performance. Pakistan is now set to face their arch-rivals India on September 10th in Colombo.
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