In a rain-affected and exhilarating encounter at Bengaluru, Pakistan’s swashbuckling opener Fakhar Zaman rose to the occasion, delivering a remarkable unbeaten century to secure a crucial 21-run win over New Zealand, preserving Pakistan’s hopes in the World Cup.
Zaman’s sensational 126 off 81 balls, embellished with 11 sixes and eight boundaries, propelled Pakistan to 200-1 after 25.3 overs, successfully chasing a revised target of 342 in 41 overs based on the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method.
New Zealand had set a daunting target of 402 initially, with Zaman spearheading Pakistan’s charge, propelling them to 160-1 in 21.3 overs before a rain interruption led to a revised target. Zaman’s relentless assault continued even after the break, ensuring Pakistan crossed the 200-run mark and remained in contention for a spot in the World Cup semi-finals.
Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson were instrumental in New Zealand’s formidable total of 401-6, with Ravindra notching his third century of the tournament, supported by Williamson’s composed 95. Despite Pakistan’s challenging situation, Zaman’s monumental innings, coupled with a resilient partnership with skipper Babar Azam (66*), elevated Pakistan to a much-needed victory, keeping their World Cup aspirations alive.
Pakistan, currently holding eight points from as many games, must secure a win against England in Kolkata on November 11, while also relying on New Zealand’s potential loss to Sri Lanka on November 9 in Bengaluru. The enthralling clash highlighted Zaman’s outstanding resilience and determination, solidifying his status as a key player in Pakistan’s World Cup campaign.
