Match 02, PAK vs NED, ICC Men’s Cricket Worldcup 2023, India
Pakistan’s ICC Cricket Worldcup 2023 journey begins against Netherland today in the 2nd Match of the group stage at Hyderabad. Earlier in the game when Pakistan were asked to bat first, they were down and out from the onset of the game but managed to set 287 for NED.
Despite getting bowled out on 286, Pakistan hold a very strong record of defending totals 275 or more in ICC Men’s Cricket Worldcups. No team has chased down 275+ against Pakistan in the ICC ODI Worldcups as well. Which means that NED have to put up a great show with the bat to chase 287 down.
Since 1975, from the 1st ICC Cricket WC1975 till ICC Men’s Cricket Worldcup 2019, England, Pakistan have successfully defended 275+ totals on 12 occeasions. Therefore, they can expect a win after scoring 275 in ODI Cricket WC.
Yesterday, England couldn’t defend 282 against NZ in the opener of the ICC CWC23, India. Records are meant to be broken but PCT always dominate when it comes to defend the targets. Their main men are back except Naseem that has always been crucial in defending any targets.
Shaheen Shah Afridi and Hassan Ali will have an upper hand against Dutch batters with their in and out swings. Shaheen can be deadly and draw first blood too with his experieced bowling. On the other hand, Haris Rauf can play a vital role with his pace to stun the opposition.
Moreover, the spin attack can also cause problem for team Netherlands. Shadab with wrong-ones and googlies and Nawaz with left-arm spin will create problems. On top of that, Iftikhar’s flighted deliveries can also prove crucial.
Will Pakistan keep their record unbroken or NED upset Pakistan in the ICC Men’s CWC 2023? Let’s find out the answer while NED begin their chase.
