In a thrilling Cricket World Cup encounter, Afghanistan secured their maiden victory over Pakistan in one-day cricket, accomplishing their highest-ever successful chase in this format. The Afghan team’s outstanding performance was led by Ibrahim Zadran, who contributed 87 runs, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, with a blistering 65, and Rahmat Shah, who remained unbeaten at 77. They managed to reach their target of 283 with eight wickets in hand and six balls to spare.
This triumph propels Afghanistan to the sixth position in the standings, while it leaves defending champions England at the bottom of the table.
Captain Babar Azam had earlier played a crucial knock of 74 as Pakistan posted a total of 282-7 in the match held in Chennai. Notably, teenage spinner Noor Ahmad stood out among the Afghan bowlers, claiming three wickets for 49 runs.
This victory marks Afghanistan’s first win against Pakistan in one-day internationals after eight previous attempts. Their total of 286-2 surpasses their previous record chase of 276-8, achieved in a match against the United Arab Emirates in 2014.
Furthermore, this win is only Afghanistan’s third-ever triumph in the Cricket World Cup, following victories over Scotland in 2015 and England earlier in this tournament.
