In a historic World Cup clash, Mohammad Rizwan and Abdullah Shafique displayed remarkable batting prowess, each notching brilliant centuries as they propelled Pakistan to complete the highest-ever run chase in the tournament's history. Sri Lanka had earlier set a formidable target of 344 runs on the scoreboard, largely thanks to centuries by Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama.
Pakistan's chase didn't begin smoothly, with Imam-ul-Haq departing early and skipper Babar Azam falling cheaply, adding to their early woes. However, Abdullah Shafique and Mohammad Rizwan joined forces, initiating a remarkable rebuilding effort. Once the fielding restrictions were lifted, the duo accelerated, forging a formidable 176-run partnership. Abdullah Shafique, filling in for Fakhar Zaman in this match, repaid the selectors' trust with his maiden ODI century, while Rizwan displayed his fluent best.
Even Shafique's departure and Rizwan's battle with cramps couldn't deter Pakistan's progress, as Saud Shakeel and Iftikhar Ahmed stepped up to provide valuable support. Rizwan continued to dominate, eventually reaching his third ODI century. He found a reliable partner in Saud Shakeel, and together with Iftikhar Ahmed, they orchestrated the finishing touches.
In the end, Pakistan emerged victorious, cruising to a remarkable win with 10 balls to spare and six wickets in hand. This incredible performance will be etched in World Cup history as one of the most memorable run chases ever witnessed in the
tournament.
