The Pakistan Men’s cricket team began their journey to Chennai from Bengaluru via a chartered plane for their upcoming ICC World Cup 2023 match against Afghanistan on October 21.
Upon their arrival in Chennai, the team had a scheduled day off before engaging in net practice to prepare for the critical match against Afghanistan, set for Monday.
In the current ICC World Cup 2023 standings, Pakistan is positioned at fifth place with four points earned from three matches, maintaining a net run rate of -0.456.
Pakistan recently faced a significant setback with a 62-run loss to Australia. The defeat came as a result of impressive centuries by Australia’s David Warner and Mitchell Marsh, coupled with a disciplined bowling performance.
While attempting to chase the challenging target of 368 runs, Pakistan managed to accumulate 305 runs before being dismissed in the 46th over. Notably, Pakistan’s opening pair, Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq, put up a strong start, both achieving half-centuries and building a robust partnership of 134 runs without any wickets falling in 21 overs.
However, Marcus Stoinis, Australia’s bowler, made a significant impact. He disrupted Pakistan’s momentum with a well-executed short-pitched delivery that led to Abdullah’s dismissal on his very first ball. Stoinis continued to trouble Pakistan by removing Imam in the following over, eliminating both well-set batsmen in quick succession. Imam was Pakistan’s top scorer, achieving 70 runs off 71 balls, including 10 boundaries.
