Pakistan started their ICC Cricket World Cup campaign with an impressive 81-run victory over a determined Netherlands side in Hyderabad.
Despite a shaky start that saw Pakistan at 38-3, a crucial partnership between Saud Shakeel and Muhammad Rizwan, both scoring 68, propelled them to a total of 286 all out in 49 overs.
The Netherlands began their chase strongly, reaching 120-2. However, they faltered in the middle overs, losing four wickets for just 38 runs. All-rounder Bas de Leede’s valiant effort of 4-62 and a score of 67 went in vain as his team finished at 205 all out.
De Leede’s double breakthroughs in the 32nd and 44th overs disrupted Pakistan’s momentum, but the experienced duo of Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz managed to steady the ship.
Netherlands opener Vikram Singh showed great determination, achieving a gritty half-century. However, he lacked the necessary support from the middle and lower order. Pakistan’s seasoned bowling attack, led by seamer Haris Rauf’s 3-43, held their ground, dismissing the Dutch side in just 41 overs.
Next up, the Netherlands will face New Zealand, while Pakistan will take on Sri Lanka in their respective fixtures.
