Pakistan lost their last six wickets for just 36 runs, which was a significant blow to their chase. They were initially on track, needing 103 runs in 12 overs, with Iftikhar and Rizwan in a strong partnership.
However, Zampa’s exceptional performance turned the game in Australia’s favour. Zampa had been impressive earlier in the match by dismissing Babar and maintaining a tight line. But in his final spell, he reached new heights by taking wickets consecutively—first Iftikhar and then Rizwan, both LBW—and ultimately sealing the victory by stumping Nawaz.
The foundation for Pakistan’s chase had been set by the 134-run opening partnership between Shafique and Imam. Although they couldn’t convert it into centuries like Warner and Marsh for Australia, they provided a strong base for the rest of the team. Unfortunately, Pakistan’s middle order couldn’t carry the innings deep enough. Despite some elegant shots from Shakeel, Iftikhar, and Rizwan, Australia, mainly led by Zampa, continued to break through and take wickets.
Bengaluru was declared player of the match for his outstanding innings.
This win marks Australia’s second consecutive victory, showing a strong comeback after a disappointing start to the campaign.
Australian openers David Warner and Mitchell Marsh launched a brutal onslaught, propelling Australia to a total of 367/9 against Pakistan in the 18th match of the ODI World Cup 2023 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Friday.
Babar Azam-led Pakistan won the toss and opted to field first. But the decision did not work in their favour during the game.
The Australian openers, Warner and Marsh, forged an impressive 259-run partnership in the first innings. Warner scored 163 runs from 124 balls with a strike rate of 131.45, while Marsh notched a 121-run knock from 108 balls with a strike rate of 112.04. Warner hit 10 fours and nine sixes, while Marsh slammed 10 fours and nine sixes.
Pakistan’s fielders also dropped a few catches, which proved costly as it allowed Australia to set a challenging target.
Pakistani pacer Shaheen Afridi made the first breakthrough of the game when he dismissed Mitchell Marsh in the 33.5 overs (AUS 259-1). Afridi took his second wicket in the next ball, dismissing Glenn Maxwell for a duck in the 33.6 overs (AUS 259-2).
During the first powerplay,
