ODI World Cup 2023

‘Qudrat Ka Nizam working for Pakistan’ – Fans react as Pakistan beat New Zealand by DLS method in match 35 of ODI World Cup 2023

Nov 4, 2023 10:00 pm

In a rain-interrupted thriller at the Cricket World Cup, Pakistan showcased their mettle and resilience, pulling off a remarkable 21-run victory against New Zealand to keep their semi-final hopes alive. The match played on a dramatic Saturday, featured stunning performances by Fakhar Zaman and skipper Babar Azam.

New Zealand, batting first, amassed an imposing 401-6, setting a formidable target for Pakistan. However, the game took an unexpected turn when rain intervened during Pakistan’s reply. At 160-1 in the 21st over, the match came to a halt.

Upon the resumption, the revised target for Pakistan was set at 342 runs from 41 overs. Fakhar Zaman, who had already scored a century, was in fine form with 126 not out, while Babar Azam had contributed a strong 66. The duo had steered Pakistan to 200-1 in the 26th over when rain once again disrupted play. This time, the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method came into play, and Pakistan was declared the winner, being ahead of the required run rate.

Unstoppable Fakhar Zaman powers Pakistan to a rain-hit victory against New Zealand!

Fakhar Zaman’s outstanding innings featured an incredible 81-ball 126, which included 11 sixes and eight fours. His exceptional display of power-hitting and composure under pressure kept Pakistan ahead in the run chase.

With this dramatic victory, both Pakistan and New Zealand accumulated eight points each and remain strong contenders for the coveted semi-final spots. Both teams have one match left to play in the group stage, and the competition for the top four spots intensifies.

Pakistan’s journey to victory was characterized by their ability to weather the storm after facing a formidable New Zealand batting lineup. The win not only keeps their hopes alive but also serves as a reminder of their resilience and skill on the cricketing stage.

This defeat marked New Zealand’s fourth consecutive loss, which effectively sealed South Africa’s place in the semi-finals, making them the second team after India to secure a spot in the knockout stage. Pakistan, New Zealand, and Afghanistan are now locked in a fierce battle, each with eight points, alongside Australia, as they strive to secure a semi-final berth.

See how fans have reacted:

Brilliant game awareness by Pakistan and timely ining by Fakhar Zaman.Fakhar has won a champion trophy for pakistan in 2017 and repeating the same for pakistan when they are done and dusted for this world cup.Hatts of to him👏👏 pic.twitter.com/AOmoD0N5x8

— Sujeet Suman (@sujeetsuman1991) November 4, 2023