Rachin Ravindra's scintillating century
propelled New Zealand to an imposing 401/6 in their first innings, setting a
challenging pace in the high-voltage match.
However, Pakistan's dynamic duo, Fakhar
Zaman and Babar Azam, catapulted their team to a commanding 200/1 within 25.3
overs. Their efforts were amplified when the rain, playing spoilsport, called
off the match, leaving the outcome hinging on the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method.
In a remarkable display of aggression and
precision, Fakhar Zaman stole the limelight, dispatching nine sixes to reach a
whirlwind century off a mere 63 deliveries. Babar, adopting a more measured
approach, complemented Fakhar's onslaught, and together they swung the momentum
decidedly in Pakistan's favor in Bengaluru.
The rain interruption and subsequent
outfield conditions led to an over reduction, with Pakistan needing 342 from 41
overs. The pair resumed their chase with vigor after the delay, staying ahead
of the DLS par score.
Their performance was so stellar that when
the downpour resumed, making play impossible, Pakistan were ahead by 21 runs
according to the DLS method, which sealed their victory and bolstered their
position in the tournament standings.
Earlier in the day, New Zealand's innings
had been a masterclass of strategic batting, highlighted by Ravindra's
impressive 108 off 94 balls and a significant partnership with the returning
Kane Williamson. Despite Mohammad Wasim's commendable 3/60, Pakistan's bowlers
generally struggled to contain the Kiwis. New Zealand's solid performance set a
towering target, but Pakistan's response was equally spectacular, especially
Fakhar's breathtaking escalation from fifty to a hundred in just 14 balls.
While the match's conclusion was not as
anyone would have preferred, the prowess Pakistan displayed with the bat was
undeniable, adding an unexpected twist to the tournament's qualification
scenarios.
The starting lineups for the match were a
blend of experience and form, with New Zealand fielding power hitters and
Pakistan banking on pace and spin. As the teams now look ahead, the match will
be remembered for the sheer batting brilliance and the fickle nature of weather
that often dictates the course of cricket.
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