Thrilling Showdown in Second ODI: Pakistan Triumphs Over Afghanistan with Last-Ball Win, Secures Series Lead 2-0.



Web Desk: Hambantota, 24 August, 2023 — In a nail-biting encounter that had cricket fans on the edge of their seats, Pakistan emerged victorious against Afghanistan in the second ODI match of the ongoing series. The match showcased an incredible display of sportsmanship, determination, and skill, culminating in Pakistan achieving a target of 301 runs with just one ball to spare in the final over. With this hard-fought win, Pakistan now takes a commanding 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

The star of the day was Naseem Shah, who once again proved his mettle as the crisis man by stepping up in a difficult situation and contributing 10 crucial runs. However, it was Shadab Khan who truly shone, crafting an exceptional innings of 48 runs and playing a pivotal role in securing the team's victory.

The heart-stopping action unfolded as Shadab Khan, the team's pillar of strength, was dismissed after his impressive 48-run contribution in the 48th over. Pakistan's seventh wicket fell at 258 runs in 46.2 overs when Iftikhar Ahmed left the field after adding 17 runs to the scoreboard.

The battle had been fierce from the beginning. In the 39th over, Imam-ul-Haq departed after a valiant effort, contributing 91 runs to the total score of 211. Babar Azam, a cornerstone of Pakistan's batting lineup, added 53 runs before his departure at a total of 170, signaling the start of a series of unfortunate dismissals.

Muhammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha both succumbed without making any runs, while Osama Mir joined them on the pavilion with a score of zero. The initial blow came as Fakhr Zaman was dismissed for 30 at a total score of 52, followed by a remarkable partnership of 118 runs between Imam-ul-Haq and Babar Azam.

Earlier in the day, Afghanistan set a formidable target of 301 runs for Pakistan to chase, showcasing their prowess with a spectacular opening partnership that amassed 227 runs. Their journey was cut short when Ibrahim Zadran, the cornerstone of Afghanistan's innings, was caught out by Iftikhar Ahmed off Osama Mir after amassing an impressive 80 runs.

The standout performance of the Afghan innings came from Rahmanullah Garbaz, who delivered an exceptional display of batting prowess. Garbaz's stellar 151-run innings off 151 balls, peppered with 14 fours and three sixes, was finally contained by the formidable Shaheen Afridi, with wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan providing crucial support.

Afghanistan faced setbacks as Mohammad Nabi and Rashid Khan departed with mere single-digit scores, while Shahidullah shared the same fate with just one run. Pakistan's bowling attack displayed their prowess, with Shaheen Afridi taking 2 wickets, and Osama Mir and Naseem Shah claiming one wicket each.

It's important to note that Pakistan had previously secured a commanding victory in the first match of the series, defeating Afghanistan by a significant margin of 142 runs.

The ongoing series between Pakistan and Afghanistan holds immense significance as both teams gear up for upcoming mega events like the Asia Cup and the World Cup. All three matches are being hosted by the Afghan Board in Sri Lanka, adding to the excitement and intensity of the contests. Cricket enthusiasts around the world eagerly anticipate the outcome of the final match in this thrilling series.