During the ICC World Cup 2023 match in Bengaluru, Pakistan’s opening pair, Abdullah Shafique and Imam ul-Haq, achieved a historic milestone in their chase of Australia’s formidable target of 368. They became the first Pakistani opening pair to forge a century partnership against Australia in a World Cup match.
This landmark moment unfolded as Shafique and Haq demonstrated their batting prowess, constructing an impressive 134-run partnership for the first wicket. Their partnership was characterized by precision strokes and commendable resilience against the Australian bowlers.
The impressive partnership was eventually disrupted when Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis dismissed Abdullah Shafique, who had played a significant innings, contributing 64 valuable runs to Pakistan’s total. Despite the loss of this wicket, Pakistan remained in a strong position at 151-1 after 23 overs, with Imam-ul-Haq unbeaten at 69 and the experienced Babar Azam by his side.
In the backdrop of this stellar batting display, it’s worth noting that Pakistan had earlier conceded the highest total against them in a World Cup match, as Australia amassed 367/9. Mitchell Marsh and David Warner had set the tone for this massive total with outstanding centuries, taking advantage of Pakistan’s inconsistent bowling performance.
