In a highly anticipated Super 4 clash at the Asia Cup 2023, India delivered a masterclass by defeating their arch-rivals Pakistan with a record-breaking 228-run margin. The match, which extended into the Reserve Day, saw India outshine Pakistan in every aspect of the game, propelling them to the top of the Asia Cup points table.
Record-breaking total sets the tone
India set the stage for their remarkable victory by amassing a colossal 356/2 in their allotted 50 overs. This formidable total was primarily attributed to sensational centuries by Virat Kohli and KL Rahul. Kohli remained unbeaten at 122, while Rahul also smashed an undefeated 111 runs, as they dismantled the Pakistani bowling attack with clinical precision.
Adding to Pakistan’s misery, Kuldeep Yadav exhibited exceptional spin bowling prowess, securing a five-wicket haul that reduced Pakistan to a mere 128 runs in 32 overs.
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Babar Azam reflects on Pakistan’s defeat
Following the massive defeat, Pakistan’s skipper, Babar Azam, offered insights into the reasons behind their loss. Babar, who had a subpar performance himself with only 10 runs off 24 balls, identified Pakistan’s batting struggles and the inability to establish significant partnerships as key factors in their defeat.
“Jasprit and Siraj bowled very well in the first ten overs, swinging both ways. Yes, we lost back-to-back wickets, and couldn’t build partnerships. Our batting was not up to the mark,” Babar stated during the post-match presentation.
Babar also acknowledged that India had meticulously planned their approach to counter Pakistan’s renowned pace attack. The Indian openers, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, had initiated the assault on Sunday, while Kohli and Rahul continued to exploit the Pakistani bowling attack with a remarkable 233-run partnership on the reserve day.
“They (Indian openers) had plans for our bowlers and started well, and that was followed up by Virat and Rahul,” Babar added.
