In a final group stage clash between England and Pakistan at Eden Gardens, England built a formidable first-innings score of 337/9.
In second inning, Pakistan finds itself in a precarious situation as a string of wickets tumbles. Abdullah Shafique’s early departure at 0/1 set a concerning tone, and Fakhar Zaman’s dismissal at 10/2 intensified the pressure. The batting mainstay, Babar Azam, succumbing at 61/3 dealt a significant blow, further destabilizing the innings.
While Rizwan contributed with 36 runs, his departure at 100/4 signaled a vulnerability in Pakistan’s middle order. Saud Shakeel’s exit at 126/5 added to the woes, emphasizing the team’s struggle to build partnerships. The precarious situation worsened as Iftikhar Ahmed fell, leaving Pakistan at 145/6.
Pakistan posted a total of 244 runs in 43.3 overs, facing an all-out scenario. Despite some notable individual contributions, the team struggled to build substantial partnerships, succumbing to England’s disciplined bowling attack. The batsmen faced challenges in dealing with the opposition’s strategic variations. England’s effective performance in the field, coupled with consistent bowling, led to Pakistan’s downfall. The inability to set a more challenging target ultimately resulted in Pakistan’s defeat in the match, concluding their campaign with a loss against England in this cricket encounter.
