MULTAN: Pakistan’s captain Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed showcased exceptional batting performances, propelling Pakistan to a commanding total of 342 runs against Nepal in the inaugural match of the ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2023 on Wednesday. The collaborative efforts of Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed, particularly their fifth-wicket partnership, formed the bedrock for Pakistan’s substantial target.
Amidst early losses following the dismissal of Imamul Haq and Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam took charge, supported by Mohammad Rizwan who contributed 44 runs. However, it was the partnership between Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed that proved pivotal. Babar Azam played a commanding innings, amassing 151 runs off 131 deliveries, while Iftikhar Ahmed remained unbeaten at 109 runs.
Choosing to bat first after winning the toss, Pakistan aimed to set a formidable target for Nepal. The strong performance in this match signifies Pakistan’s ambition to perform effectively in the 16th edition of the Asia Cup cricket tournament.
🚨 T O S S A L E R T 🚨
Pakistan win the toss and elect to bat first 🏏#PAKvNEP | #AsiaCup2023 pic.twitter.com/iuuZfKfQv1
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) August 30, 2023
Hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka jointly, the Asia Cup will span until September 17. Pakistan’s journey in the tournament will continue as they will travel to Sri Lanka on August 31 to face India in their second Group-A match on September 2 in Kandy.
Pakistan Team Selection for Match Against Nepal
Pakistan’s selection strategy for the opening match prioritized flexibility and variety in bowling options. The playing XI included three frontline fast bowlers and three spin-bowling all-rounders, aiming to provide a balanced approach to the team’s performance.
The match against Nepal marks the return of Iftikhar Ahmed to the middle-order batting lineup after his absence in the final ODI against Afghanistan.
Babar Azam, the captain of the Pakistani team, expressed the team’s enthusiasm for playing in Multan, emphasizing the importance of the Asia Cup as a platform to showcase their skills and determination. He also acknowledged Nepal’s participation in the tournament and its potential to contribute to the development of cricket in the country.
Babar Azam also highlighted the team’s recent successes across formats, including achieving the top spot in the ICC rankings for ODI teams. The captain emphasized the team’s unwavering commitment to winning matches for the country and expressed confidence in their performance in the upcoming matches.
