‘Inse naa ho paega’ – Fans react to Pakistan’s scenario to qualify for semi-finals of ODI World Cup 2023
In the ongoing Cricket World Cup, Pakistan suffered a significant setback as they endured their third consecutive loss, this time at the hands of Afghanistan in Chennai. The Pakistani team was already […]
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Oct 24, 2023 11:56 am
In the ongoing Cricket World Cup, Pakistan suffered a significant setback as they endured their third consecutive loss, this time at the hands of Afghanistan in Chennai. The Pakistani team was already reeling from defeats against arch-rivals India and the mighty Australian squad. Their match against Afghanistan held the promise of redemption, but instead, Hashmatullah Shahidi’s Afghan side stunned them with an emphatic eight-wicket victory.
Pakistan’s batting lineup faced Afghanistan’s formidable bowling attack first, struggling to reach 282/7 in their allotted 50 overs. The pressure was on, and Pakistan needed to defend this total to keep their World Cup campaign alive.
When Afghanistan stepped in to bat, they were buoyed by outstanding half-centuries from Rahmanullah Gurbaz (65), Ibrahim Zadran (87), and Rahmat Shah (77*). The Afghan batsmen demonstrated composure and skill, effortlessly chasing down the target set by Pakistan. Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (48*) and Rahmat Shah remained unbeaten, sealing an eight-wicket victory that sent shockwaves through the cricketing world.
(Source: Twitter)
Pakistan’s World Cup Hopes Diminish After Third Consecutive Defeat!
With this defeat, Pakistan found themselves stagnant at the fifth spot in the World Cup standings, holding four points from five matches with a net run rate (NRR) of -0.400. Afghanistan, on the other hand, climbed to the sixth spot, also with four points from five matches but boasting a better NRR of -0.969. The road to the semi-finals now appears treacherous for Pakistan, with upcoming matches against formidable opponents: South Africa, Bangladesh, New Zealand, and defending champions, England. Both South Africa and New Zealand are currently in excellent form, while England remains a force to be reckoned with.
On the flip side, Afghanistan, who had previously stunned defending champions England, are on a giant-killing spree. Their upcoming matches are against Sri Lanka, Netherlands, Australia, and South Africa, and any team would be wise to approach them with caution.
Cricket fans and enthusiasts worldwide are now contemplating Pakistan’s chances of reaching the semi-finals, and the outlook appears grim. What was once a team considered a favourite to lift the World Cup trophy is now facing an uphill battle, and their supporters are starting to doubt the feasibility of their dreams.
