An India vs. Pakistan cricket match is more than just a game; it’s a spectacle that stirs up intense emotions, not only among players but also among fans, former cricketers, and politicians. The latest chapter in this legendary rivalry unfolded during the Asia Cup 2023 Group A match at the Pallekele International Stadium, and it brought with it a dramatic twist, courtesy of Pakistan’s star bowler, Shaheen Afridi.
Shaheen Afridi didn’t have the ideal start. His initial attempts to dismiss India’s openers, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, were a bit off target. He bowled a tad too full and conceded boundaries. However, just when it seemed like it might be an off day for the left-arm pacer, rain intervened in the fifth over, granting Shaheen a moment to recalibrate his strategy.
As play resumed after a brief delay, Shaheen was a transformed bowler. In just three balls, he sent India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, back to the pavilion with an almost unplayable delivery. His next over featured the dismissal of Virat Kohli. This time, the delivery wasn’t as exquisite as Rohit’s dismissal, but the change in length was the game-changer.
Shaheen Afridi decided to slightly shorten his length, and it paid dividends. He also adjusted his approach after the rain break by opting to hit the pitch harder instead of relying solely on swing. Kohli’s dismissal was a testament to this tactical shift, as the ball didn’t reach him as expected, leading to the former Indian captain dragging it onto his stumps. Shaheen’s remarkable performance, ending with figures of 4/35, made him the first bowler to dismiss both Rohit and Kohli in the same ODI.
The cricketing world erupted in response to Shaheen’s brilliance, with the hashtag “They cannot play him” trending. Even former Pakistan pacer Wahab Riaz joined in the chorus of praise.
Despite Shaheen’s heroics, rain had the final say in the match. India managed to post 266 all out in 48.5 overs, with a remarkable rescue act by Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya. These two batsmen orchestrated a 138-run partnership for the fifth wicket, rescuing India from a precarious 66 for 4 in 14.1 overs.
In the end, the match ended in a no-result due to rain, earning Pakistan 3 points and securing their spot in the Super Four of the tournament. India, who earned a point from their opening fixture, remains hopeful of progressing when they face Nepal on Monday. The India vs. Pakistan saga continues, delivering memorable moments and cricketing drama that captivates fans across the globe.
Read Now:Rain Dampens India vs. Pakistan Thriller: Kishan and Pandya Shine Amidst Shaheen’s Fury
