New Delhi: India began their chase of 242 with a strong opening partnership as Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill accumulated 20 runs in the first three overs. Rohit wasted no time, launching a six in the second over to set the tone, but Pakistan responded swiftly. Shaheen Shah Afridi delivered a brilliant yorker to send the Indian captain back for 20 off 15 balls, breaking India’s early rhythm.
After Rohit’s exit, Virat Kohli came in to partner with Gill, and together they kept India on track with a blend of smooth batting and smart aggression. During his knock, Kohli achieved a remarkable feat, becoming the quickest player to accumulate 14,000 runs in One Day Internationals.
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Just when India seemed to have the upper hand, Pakistan struck back as Abrar Ahmed delivered a superb carrom ball that sent the well-set Gill back to the pavilion. The crafty delivery completely bamboozled the Indian opener, giving Pakistan a much-needed boost of confidence.
Left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav (3/40) claimed three wickets, while all-rounder Hardik Pandya (2/31) dismissed Babar Azam (23) and Shakeel.
India reached the target in 42.3 overs, thanks to Virat Kohli (100* off 111), Shubman Gill (46 off 52), and Shreyas Iyer (56 off 67).
Captain Rohit Sharma (20 off 15) also played a few daring shots before falling to a superb delivery from Shaheen Afridi.
With two victories in as many matches, India is almost guaranteed a spot in the semifinals. In contrast, Pakistan faces elimination after losing their opening two group-stage matches.
Brief scores:
Pakistan: 241 all out in 49.4 overs (Saud Shakeel 62, Mohammed Rizwan 46, Khushdil Shah 38; Hardik Pandya 2/31, Kuldeep Yadav 3/40) vs India 244/4 in 42.3 overs (Virat Kohli 100* not out, Shubman Gill 46, Shreyas Iyer 56; Abrar Ahmed 1/28).
