In a scintillating start to the highly anticipated Asia Cup 2023, Pakistan showcased their batting prowess by posting an imposing total of 342-6 in 50 overs against Nepal. The clash, set against the backdrop of Multan, unfolded with Pakistan winning the toss and opting to bat first on a sunny Wednesday. The fervent crowd was treated to a masterclass in batting as Captain Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed orchestrated brilliant centuries to anchor Pakistan’s innings.
Babar Azam’s willow wielded its magic as he garnered 151 runs off 131 deliveries, embellishing his innings with 14 exquisite fours and four towering sixes. Displaying sublime form, the 28-year-old not only anchored the innings but also etched his name in the record books. Babar Azam’s century marked his 19th in ODIs, a feat achieved in just 102 innings, making him the fastest player to attain this milestone. The record was previously held by former South African batter Hashim Amla, who reached 19 ODI centuries in his 104th inning. Babar’s arrival at the crease was particularly crucial for Pakistan, as they had stumbled to 25-2 following the early dismissals of Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq.
Undeterred by the early setbacks, Babar Azam collaborated in a pivotal 86-run partnership with Mohammad Rizwan, who contributed a well-played 44 runs off 50 balls. The partnership was broken by a run-out in an unusual manner, but it set the stage for Iftikhar Ahmed to shine. Iftikhar’s blistering innings of 109 not out off 71 balls, adorned with 11 fours and four sixes, propelled Pakistan’s total further and demonstrated his remarkable ability to accelerate the scoring.
The match also highlighted Pakistan’s resilience, as they weathered subsequent wickets to pave the way for a formidable partnership between Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed. The duo seamlessly combined for a commanding 214-run partnership, achieved in just 131 balls, leaving Nepal’s bowlers struggling for answers. The Multan crowd was treated to a breathtaking display of strokeplay as the boundaries flowed and the scoreboard ticked relentlessly.
This encounter marked a significant moment in the history of the Asia Cup, as both Nepal, the team, and Multan, the venue, made their debut appearances. The match also bore the distinction of being the first-ever top-level clash between Pakistan and Nepal. With the stage set for intense competition, the Asia Cup 2023 promised to unravel more thrilling matches and unexpected twists.
Pakistan’s entry into the Asia Cup was marked by a soaring trajectory in the ICC rankings for ODI teams. Following a convincing 3-0 series triumph over Afghanistan in Sri Lanka, Pakistan ascended to the top spot for the second time since April. This surge in rankings added an extra layer of motivation and anticipation to their Asia Cup campaign.
The Asia Cup 2023 roared to life with Pakistan’s emphatic performance against Nepal. Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed’s monumental centuries guided Pakistan to a formidable total of 342-6. The thrilling clash not only showcased the nation’s batting prowess but also emphasized their determination to conquer the tournament. As the Asia Cup journey unfolds, fans worldwide brace themselves for an exhilarating spectacle of cricketing brilliance.
