Pakistan bulldozed Nepal by 238 runs in the Asia Cup 2023's opener in Multan on Wednesday, August 30, thanks to splendid centuries from Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed. Babar Azam dazzled with a knock of 151, while Iftikar Ahmed raced to his century in just 67 balls to help Pakistan post a big total of 342/6. In reply, Nepal couldn't do much and succumbed to Pakistan's lethal bowling attack and were bowled out for a paltry 104.
After electing to bat first, Pakistan got off to a shaky start as both the openers Fakhar Zaman and Imam ul Haq returned to pavilion in quick succession. Just when it seemed like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were steadying the ship, a bizarre run-out ended Rizwan's promising innings, leaving the team and fans in a state of frustration.
Pakistan's opening woes were evident as Fakhar Zaman edged a delivery from KC Karan to the wicketkeeper, while Imam ul Haq was run out in the seventh over. These early setbacks put Pakistan on the back foot, raising questions about their batting depth in the tournament opener.
Rizwan, in a seemingly casual attempt at running between the wickets, failed to ground his bat properly as he charged for a single in the 24th over leading to his dismissal. Nepal's fielder, Dipendra Singh, executed a direct hit that ended Rizwan's innings at 44. The commentators were quick to criticize Rizwan for his casual approach, and even Babar Azam couldn't hide his frustration.
Captain Babar Azam could be seen throwing his cap towards the ground in frustration as the third umpire confirmed Rizwan's dismissal on the big screen.
However, Babar made amends for the mistake and went on to score a daddy hundred to help Pakistan post a colossal total. Facing Pakistan in the Asia Cup for the first time, Nepal initially seemed to be putting up a decent fight. They restricted the hosts to 124/4 in the 28th over. However, they had no answers for the torrential run-scoring from Azam and Ahmed in the closing overs. The dynamic duo stitched together a 214-run partnership for the fifth wicket in just 131 balls, single-handedly putting the game out of Nepal's reach.
While bowling Shadab Khan led Pakistan's bowling attack with a four-wicket haul, effectively dismissing Nepal for a mere 104 runs. Nepal's Sompal Kami was the most effective bowler for his team, picking up 2/85. Sompal was also the top scorer for the losing team as he scored 28 off 46. Meanwhile Babar Azam was awarded the Player of the Match award for his superlative knock.
Pakistan will next face arch-rivals India in a blockbuster clash on September 2 in Kandy.
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