Australia won by 14 runs in a high-scoring warm-up match against Pakistan for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
In a thrilling encounter at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, Australia posted a formidable total of 351 for 7 in their 50 overs, and Pakistan put up a valiant chase but fell short, managing 337 in 47.4 overs.
Australia’s Batting Fireworks
Australia, electing to bat, got off to a flying start with opener David Warner’s explosive 33-ball 48. Glenn Maxwell was the star performer for Australia, smashing a blistering 77 off 71 balls, including four boundaries and six massive sixes. Cameron Green also played a pivotal role with an unbeaten 40-ball 50, while Josh Inglis and Warner contributed 48 runs each. The late assault on Pakistan’s bowlers saw 126 runs scored in the final 12 overs.
Usama Mir’s Bowling Prowess
Pakistan’s Usama Mir was the standout bowler, finishing with figures of 2-31 in five overs, dismissing Warner and Mitchell Marsh. Mir’s effective spin bowling put a temporary brake on Australia’s scoring rampage.
Pakistan’s Valiant Effort
Pakistan began their chase brightly but soon ran into trouble. Pat Cummins, Australia’s pace spearhead, dismissed Imam-ul-Haq, and Pakistan lost wickets at regular intervals. Marnus Labuschagne, who also chipped in with three wickets, removed Shadab Khan early. With Pakistan struggling at 83 for four, a rescue mission was needed.
Babar and Iftikhar’s Heroics
Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed joined forces, mounting a spirited comeback. Babar showcased sublime form with an unbeaten 90, and Iftikhar contributed a robust 83 off 85 balls. Their partnership added 144 runs in under 18 overs, taking Pakistan within striking distance of a win.
Australia’s Tactical Spin
Rather than wrapping up the game quickly, Australia turned to part-time spinners like Labuschagne, Maxwell, Steve Smith, and David Warner. This tactical move created an unexpected twist, as Pakistan capitalized on the part-time spinners, and boundaries flowed.
Cummins’ Decisive Return
With 21 runs needed in the final three overs and just one wicket in hand, Cummins returned to the attack. Labuschagne bowled the penultimate over, conceding six off the first three balls, before Cummins claimed the final wicket.
A Thrilling Encounter
The match showcased incredible batting displays, strategic bowling changes, and a nail-biting finish. Australia emerged victorious, but Pakistan’s spirited fightback added to the excitement of this World Cup warm-up encounter.
Upcoming Matches
Australia will face hosts India in their first match on October 8 in Chennai, while Pakistan’s campaign in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 begins on October 6 when they take on the Netherlands in Hyderabad.
