Pak off with a bang

Ton-up Babar and Iftikhar help hosts register massive 238-run win over Nepal to begin campaign in style

Skipper Babar Azam hit a delightful 151, while Iftikhar Ahmed smashed his maiden ODI century as Pakistan thrashed minnows Nepal by 238 runs in the opening match of the Asia Cup, here on Wednesday.

Babar and Iftikhar played pivotal roles in powering Pakistan to 342 for six after opting to bat. Babar (151 off 130) was involved in two crucial partnerships after a sedate start—first stitching 86 runs with Mohammad Rizwan (44 off 50) and then sharing a whirlwind 214 runs for the fifth wicket with Iftikhar (109 not out off 71 balls)—to take Pakistan to an imposing total.

Also Read: Asia Cup 2023: Babar Azam wants Pakistan to put best foot forward against India

Babar decorated his knock with 14 fours and four sixes, while Iftikhar, who was at his destructive best, struck 11 boundaries and four hits over the fence.

This was after Pakistan made an unimpressive start to their innings as they lost both the openers early. It was always going to be a Herculean task for Nepal and it turned out to be so. Leg-break bowler Shadab Khan cleaned up Nepal’s tail to return with impressive figures of 4-27.

Brief scores
Pakistan 342-6 in 50 overs (B Azam 151, I Ahmed 109*, M Rizwan 44; S Kami 2-85) beat Nepal 104 all out in 23.4 overs (Kami 28; S Khan 4-27, H Rauf 2-16, S Afridi 2-27) by 238 runs

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!