The Group A fixture between India and Pakistan in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 has been called off due to the rain. Both teams shared one point each since the match couldn’t proceed beyond the first inning at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.
No result in the game means the match between India and Nepal on September 4 will be a knockout match. Pakistan has qualified for the Super 4 with three points. Nepal stands with 0 points after a defeat against Pakistan, whilst India has a single point.
Opting to bat first, India scored 266 runs before being bowled out in 48.5 overs. They had a dreadful start, losing Rohit Sharma (11) and Virat Kohli (4), both bowled out by Shaheen Afridi, within the seventh over. Soon, Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer left the crease as India were down to 66/4 in the 16th over.
Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya then rescued India with a 138-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Kishan scored 81-ball 82, whereas Pandya notched up 87 from 90 balls. Jasprit Bumrah also contributed crucial 16 runs at the end.
Pakistani pacers were on top form as they claimed all ten wickets. Shaheen Shah Afridi was the pick of a bowler, claiming four wickets. Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah also bagged three wickets each.
Further match was not possible due to the persistent rain.
Bangladesh and Afghanistan will battle against each other on Sunday’s fixture at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
Nepal and India’s match is scheduled for September 4 at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.
Photo- ESPNCricinfo
