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Pakistan‘s once-promising journey in the ODI World Cup 2023 now appears uncertain and gloomy due to three consecutive defeats following an initially bright start.
Iftikhar Ahmed’s imaginary exchange steals the show
Amidst the prevailing uncertainty, a lighthearted video from Pakistan’s match against Afghanistan in Chennai on Monday (October 23) has taken the internet by storm. The video captured an intriguing moment during the drink break following the 25th over of Afghanistan’s innings. In the video, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi and Iftikhar Ahmed were engaged in what seems like a lively conversation.
The puzzling exchange: Iftikhar’s invisible companion
Upon initial inspection, it gave the impression that Iftikhar was deeply engrossed in conversation with an unseen teammate. However, as the camera zoomed out, it became evident that there was no one in close proximity to Iftikhar. Nevertheless, he continued to fervently communicate with an imperceptible conversational partner.
Here’s the video:
Can anyone decode why Iftikhar talking to himself?? pic.twitter.com/s403tYWTh0
— 24 (@Chilled_Yogi) October 24, 2023
Also READ: World Cup 2023: Wasim Akram uses casteist slur to bash Pakistan cricket team on live television; video goes viral
Pakistan’s defeat against Afghanistan
In the game against Afghanistan, Pakistan suffered a humbling eight-wicket loss. Despite posting a respectable 282/7, featuring standout performances from Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Shadab Khan and Iftikhar, Pakistan’s bowling performance left much to be desired. Afghanistan’s batters capitalized on Pakistan’s uninspired bowling, with Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmat Shah contributing half-centuries, securing the target with eight wickets in hand and one over to spare.
Pakistan’s quest for semi-final spot
Pakistan now faces the arduous task of turning their fortunes around, needing to secure victories in their remaining fixtures and rely on favourable results from other games to secure a spot in the semi-finals.