Pakistan had a successful start to their ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 campaign with a convincing 81-run victory over the Netherlands at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. Despite early setbacks, Pakistan managed to build a competitive total of 286 thanks to a partnership between Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel, followed by a significant contribution from all-rounders Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz.
Mohammad Rizwan scored 68 runs, while Saud Shakeel impressed with a 52-ball 68. Mohammad Nawaz contributed 39 runs, and Shadab Khan added 32 runs.
In response, the Netherlands faced initial challenges but managed to put up some resistance, with half-centurions Vikramjit Singh and Bas de Leede adding 70 runs for the third wicket. However, Pakistan’s bowlers, including Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Afridi, Iftikhar Ahmed, Nawaz, and Shadab, combined to restrict the Netherlands to 205 runs in 41 overs.
Pakistan’s net run rate was crucial in rolling out the opposition, and they achieved a net run rate of 1.620.
Pakistan’s next match is against Sri Lanka, and they are aiming to continue their winning momentum. Mohammad Nawaz emphasized the importance of starting the tournament on a positive note and expressed confidence in carrying the momentum forward.
Nawaz also praised the partnerships in the middle and lower-middle order that helped Pakistan set a defendable total. He acknowledged Saud Shakeel’s brilliant counterattacking cricket and highlighted the importance of the partnership between Rizwan and Saud.
Regarding the upcoming match against Sri Lanka, Nawaz stated that past results would not affect their mindset, and they would approach the game with a positive outlook. Pakistan has an excellent record against Sri Lanka in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup since 1975, winning all seven encounters.
