India’s preparation for the upcoming ODI World Cup seems to be on the right track as they delivered a crushing blow to Pakistan in a Super Four clash at the Asia Cup, winning by a massive margin of 228 runs over two days due to rain interruptions. While India showcased a near-flawless performance in all facets of the game, Pakistan struggled to find their footing, leaving former cricketer Shahid Afridi disappointed with their lack of intent.
Shahid Afridi expressed his views on the match, emphasizing that winning or losing is part of the game, but what disappointed him the most was Pakistan’s lack of fighting spirit and intent to win. He believed that India played like the number one team, excelling in batting and bowling.
Shahid Afridi congratulated Virat Kohli for achieving another milestone in ODI runs and praised the partnership between Kohli and KL Rahul. He encouraged the Pakistani team to bounce back in the next match.
WATCH – Shahid Afridi Criticizes Pakistan’s Lack of Intent in Crushing Loss to India
“Winning/losing is part of competing, but not putting up a fight, not showing intent to win is just poor. Exactly what I was referring to in my previous tweet. India played as #1 on the field, batting & bowling. Congrats @imVkohli on achieving another dream milestone of ODI runs and well-crafted by you and KL Rahul Chin up boys, you can do better than this, next match #PakvsIND,” Shahid Afridi wrote on his X account.
Winning/losing is part of competing, but not putting up a fight, not showing intent to win is just poor. Exactly what I was referring to in my previous tweet.
India played as #1 on the field, batting & bowling. Congrats @imVkohli on achieving another dream milestone of ODI runs…— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) September 11, 2023
In the match, India’s decision to bat first after winning the toss proved fruitful. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill provided an explosive start, while KL Rahul and Virat Kohli delivered thunderous centuries. Kohli’s classic innings of 122* off 94 balls featured an array of shots, entertaining the fans, while Rahul, making a strong case for the number four spot, scored 111* off 106 balls.
India’s formidable batting display set a daunting target of 357 runs for Pakistan. When Pakistan began their chase, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj’s fiery opening spells left them struggling from the outset.
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Kuldeep Yadav, eager to secure his spot for the World Cup, further dismantled the Pakistani batting lineup with a five-wicket haul, sealing India’s commanding victory. India’s dominant performance in all aspects of the game reflects their preparation and readiness for the upcoming ODI World Cup, while Pakistan faces the challenge of regrouping and showing more intent in their next match.
