Australia Outplays Pakistan in a Thrilling Encounter
In a captivating warm-up match, Australia emerged victorious against Pakistan, thanks to a strategic decision by Captain Pat Cummins to bat first.
David Warner set the tone for the Australian innings with a fiery 48 runs off just 33 balls. Marnus Labuschagne’s elegant 40-run contribution and Glenn Maxwell’s electrifying 77 off 57 deliveries further bolstered the Australian score. With significant contributions from Cameron Green (50*) and Josh Inglis (48), Australia managed to post a daunting total of 351/7 in 50 overs.
Pakistan’s chase began on a promising note with Fakhar Zaman (22) and Imam-ul-Haq (16) laying a solid groundwork. However, the Australian bowlers, led by Cummins, consistently disrupted Pakistan’s momentum.
Pakistan’s Captain Babar Azam showcased his exceptional talent, scoring a remarkable 90 runs before retiring. Despite his efforts, the required run rate for Pakistan continued to escalate. Iftikhar Ahmed’s brave 83 and Mohammad Nawaz’s dynamic 50 kept Pakistan in the game.
Labuschagne, who had already made a mark with his batting, proved to be a game-changer with the ball as well. His crucial wickets, coupled with Maxwell’s effective off-spin, put the Pakistani batting line-up under immense pressure. With Mitchell Marsh’s valuable support, Australia successfully restricted Pakistan and bowled them out in 47.4 overs.
Afghanistan Overcomes Sri Lanka in Rain-Affected Match
In another warm-up match, Afghanistan secured a win against Sri Lanka, largely due to a magnificent century from Rahmanullah Gurbaz (119) and a classy 93 from Rahmat Shah.
Sri Lanka set a commendable total of 294, led by Kusal Mendis’s outstanding 158. However, Gurbaz and Rahmat’s 212-run partnership swiftly turned the tide in Afghanistan’s favor.
Due to rain, Afghanistan’s victory target was reduced to 257 in 42 overs. Gurbaz and Rahmat executed their chase masterfully, reaching the target with more than three overs to spare. Gurbaz’s thrilling innings included nine sixes, while Rahmat added three more, setting the stage for Afghanistan’s impressive victory.
The third warm-up match between India and the Netherlands, scheduled for Tuesday, was unfortunately abandoned due to rain.