[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text dp_text_size=”size-4″]Pakistan’s return to the top spot in the Men’s ODI Rankings was confirmed by the ICC on Saturday following their complete dominance over Afghanistan in the series. Pakistan secured a 3-0 lead in the series. Their first ODI victory was by a substantial 142-run margin, mainly due to an exceptional bowling performance. The second match was a tense contest, with Pakistan narrowly clinching a victory in the final over, holding just one wicket in hand.
In the third game, Pakistan emerged triumphant by 59 runs, propelled by a strong performance in the latter part of their batting innings. Despite facing challenges in the middle, Pakistan finished strongly on a sluggish pitch, amassing a total of 268 runs. Key contributions came from Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam, both scoring half-centuries.
Congratulations! Top-ranked ODI side 🙌#AFGvPAK | #BackTheBoysInGreen pic.twitter.com/3P1OmA8tqf
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) August 26, 2023
Facing Pakistan’s target, Faheem Ashraf claimed two early wickets, while the spinners consistently took wickets to keep Afghanistan in check. Although Mujeeb ur Rahman’s swift half-century off 26 balls provided some resistance, Afghanistan couldn’t overcome Pakistan’s competitive total.
Shadab’s three-wicket haul further limited Afghanistan’s progress as Pakistan secured a clean sweep in the series.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
