Jasprit Bumrah‘s eagerly anticipated return to full-tilt ODI action was postponed by persistent rain as the India vs. Pakistan Asia Cup Super 4 match in Colombo succumbed to the elements. India, at 147/2 in 24.1 overs, were building a strong foundation when rain interrupted play, forcing the match to be rescheduled for the reserve day on Monday, adding pressure to their next game against Sri Lanka on Tuesday.
Openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill ignited India’s innings with a 121-run partnership for the first wicket. Although both were dismissed in consecutive overs, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul steadied the ship. Rahul, making his return to competitive cricket after a hiatus since May, showcased his prowess with a magnificent boundary, reflecting his middle-order enforcer role.
India’s batting prowess was evident as they maintained a scoring rate of over six runs an over before rain intervened. KL Rahul also reached a personal milestone, surpassing 2000 ODI runs in just 53 innings.
In their pursuit to secure the upper hand against Pakistan, Sharma and Gill displayed finesse and power. They expertly tackled Shaheen Afridi, who showcased swing, seam, and pace initially, but Sharma’s six and subsequent boundaries exhibited India’s determination. Gill also took charge, sending Afridi to the boundary and flicking him over mid-wicket.
As Pakistan sought to regain control by withdrawing Afridi and introducing Faheem Ashraf and Haris Rauf, Gill continued his dominant performance. Sharma joined the assault when Shadab Khan’s leg-break bowling was introduced, adding further momentum to India’s innings.
However, the first drinks break caused a disruption as Sharma holed out to Ashraf at long-off, and Gill’s dismissal followed in the next over as he got caught by Agha Salman at cover.
Rain may have delayed Bumrah’s comeback, but India’s batting display showcased their strength, setting the stage for an intriguing contest against Pakistan when the match resumes on the reserve day.
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