Srinagar: Defending champions Pakistan are in a tough spot after scoring a mere 241 runs in 49.4 overs against their long-time rivals, India, in a crucial must-win match. Following a discouraging loss to New Zealand, another defeat here could lead to an early exit from the tournament.
Despite a relatively good line up, Pakistan’s batting faltered under pressure. Saud Shakeel stood out with a fighting 62 off 76 balls, while Mohammad Rizwan contributed 46 runs. Khushdil Shah added some late resistance with 38 off 39 deliveries.
India’s bowling attack, led by Kuldeep Yadav (3/40) and Hardik Pandya (2/31), kept Pakistan in check, while Harshit Rana, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja chipped in with crucial wickets.
With a below-par total on the board, Pakistan’s bowlers, featuring world-class pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf, now carry the burden of keeping their title defense alive. Will their star pacers step up, or is this the end of the road for the reigning champions?
