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When Afghanistan Stunned Pakistan With 8-Wicket Victory In 2023 Cricket World Cup

Sakshi Sharma

Afghanistan defeated Pakistan by 8 wickets (Source: @ACBofficials/x.com)Afghanistan defeated Pakistan by 8 wickets (Source: @ACBofficials/x.com)

Afghanistan pulled off a historic victory at the ICC Cricket World Cup, as they defeated Pakistan by eight wickets in a commanding display at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on October 23, 2023 . Chasing a target of 283, Afghanistan's top order delivered an exceptional performance, led by Ibrahim Zadran's composed 87 off 113 balls and Rahmanullah Gurbaz's blistering 65 off 53 balls. 

Afghanistan's Remarkable Performance Against Pakistan 

The Afghan openers set the tone with a 130-run partnership, and laid the foundation for a well-executed chase. Rahmat Shah made 77* off 84 balls and captain Hashmatullah Shahidi supported with 48* off 45 balls. The duo capitalized on the strong start, and guided Afghanistan to the historic victory. 

This remarkable victory sparked celebrations in the Afghan camp as they completed their highest-ever successful ODI chase.


Pakistan's Poor Performance 

Earlier, Pakistan, after winning the toss and opting to bat, posted a competitive total of 282 for 7. Captain Babar Azam top-scored with 74 off 92 balls, while Abdullah Shafique added 58. Contributions from the middle-order duo of Shadab Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed helped Pakistan reach a respectable score, but Afghanistan’s spin-heavy bowling attack kept Pakistan in check.

Noor Ahmad was the pick of the Afghan bowlers, as he scalped three wickets in a brilliant display of left-arm wrist spin. Naveen-ul-Haq also impressed, picking up 2 for 52, as Afghanistan's bowlers maintained control throughout Pakistan's innings.

Afghanistan showed tremendous maturity and calmness in the chase, though their cause was helped by sloppy Pakistan fielding.  

This victory follows Afghanistan’s earlier win against defending champions England, marking their second major upset in the tournament. With this victory over Pakistan, Afghanistan made  headlines and raised hopes for a deeper run in the competition.