The much-anticipated clash between Pakistan and India in the Asia Cup 2023 turned out to be a damp squib as persistent rain since the innings break prevented Pakistan from even starting their run-chase. Despite the washout, Pakistan secured a spot in the Super 4s thanks to their previous victory against Nepal.
Rain made its presence felt three times during the match in Kandy at the Pallekele Cricket Stadium. Even during India’s innings, rain played spoilsport on two occasions.
India had set a target of 267 runs for Pakistan after winning the toss and choosing to bat first. However, Pakistan’s bowlers mounted a strong comeback, dismissing the Indian team for 266 runs. Pakistan’s star seamers, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf, made early breakthroughs in the Indian top-order, but Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya ensured India kept the scoreboard ticking.
Despite losing four key wickets early, the Indian middle-order fought back, pushing the score past 130 by the 27th over. However, Pakistan’s pacers struck again, taking three quick wickets towards the end of the innings, swinging the game back in their favor. Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf both claimed three wickets each, while Naseem Shah dismissed Shardul Thakur and Kuldeep Yadav.
Although the match ended in a draw due to the rain, Pakistan’s earlier convincing 238-run win over Nepal secured their spot in the Super 4s stage. For India, this was their first match in the tournament, making the clash with Nepal a must-win for them.
Given the format of the Asia Cup, it’s likely that we’ll witness another showdown between Pakistan and India in the near future.
