Live Report: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, Hyderabad

Pakistan continue to limit damage

Sri Lanka have built a great foundation, but over the last few overs, Pakistan are ensuring they don’t put up an insurmountable first innings score.

Nawaz strikes, de Silva falls

It was an eventful moment as Nawaz took down de Silva. The momentum seemed to be shifting towards Sri Lanka due to Samarawickrama’s performance, but de Silva charged at Nawaz and fell short. An excellent catch by Shaheen Afridi at long-off secured the wicket.

Pakistan reining Sri Lanka in?

Pakistan’s bowlers managed to limit Sri Lanka’s scoring between the 30th and 35th over, conceding only 18 runs and one boundary. This disciplined bowling effort is crucial in preventing Sri Lanka from amassing a big total.

50 for Sadeera Samarawickrama

Sri Lanka experienced a lull in their innings, with a couple of wickets falling and de Silva struggling to find his rhythm. However, Samarawickrama reached a well-deserved half-century off just 43 balls. Sri Lanka will look to regain momentum and push the scoring rate higher.

Imam makes amends – too late?

Imam-ul-Haq made up for his earlier mistake of dropping Kusal Mendis by taking a brilliant diving catch to dismiss him. Mendis had a breathtaking innings, scoring 122 runs off just 77 balls. This catch could be a turning point in the game, as Imam would regret his earlier error.

Kusal Mendis – Record breaker

Kusal Mendis played a sensational innings, reaching his century in just 65 balls. This is the fastest century by a Sri Lankan in a World Cup match. Despite Imam’s dropped catch, Mendis showed his class and provided a World Cup classic performance.

All fast bowlers are coming in for tap now

Pakistan’s fast bowlers are having a tough time as Sri Lanka’s batsmen continue to hit them for runs. This shows the importance of maintaining a strong bowling attack throughout the innings to restrict the opponents.

Haris bangs it in fast, SL smash it out faster

Haris Rauf conceded 20 runs in one over, the most he has ever conceded in an ODI. Sri Lanka’s batsmen took advantage of Rauf’s fast deliveries and scored boundaries and sixes. This highlights the need for bowlers to adapt their strategies and remain consistent.

Milestones galore – but a wicket!

Sri Lanka reached their 100-run mark, while Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis both achieved individual milestones. However, Nissanka’s unbeaten partnership with Mendis was ended by a breakthrough from Shadab Khan. This wicket was much-needed for Pakistan to break the partnership and gain control.

Nissanka, Mendis speeding along

Nissanka and Mendis recovered from an early setback and played well against Haris Rauf and Mohammad Nawaz. Nissanka, in particular, successfully timed the fast deliveries and played some great shots. It will be interesting to see how long they can maintain their good form against Pakistan’s bowling attack.

Babar Azam’s Indian fanbase

One heartwarming story from Hyderabad is the growing fandom for Babar Azam. A 14-year-old fan named Alaysha traveled 850km with her parents from Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, to watch Azam play. Despite not being able to stay at the team’s hotel due to the high prices, she showed her support by displaying a huge cut-out of Babar. Her dream is to work in cricket and meet her idol someday.

And even luck deserts Shaheen

Shaheen Afridi’s luck didn’t favor him as he struggled with his bowling accuracy and even had to receive treatment for his knee. He bowled wides and was hit for a six by Kusal Mendis. This was not the ideal start for Pakistan, especially with their premier fast bowler struggling.

Poor start from Shaheen Afridi

Shaheen Afridi had a tough start with the new ball, struggling with his line and length. He resorted to coming around the wicket but was still unable to control the flow of runs. This is a setback for Pakistan, especially considering Afridi’s reputation as a key bowler.

Hasan Ali strikes first over!

Hasan Ali made an impact early in the match by taking the wicket of Kusal Perera in his first over. Perera attempted a cut shot but ended up giving an outside edge, resulting in an easy catch for the Pakistan team. This breakthrough provides momentum for Pakistan and puts Sri Lanka on the back foot.

Anthems done, action to follow

With the anthems completed, the real action is about to begin. Both teams are ready to give their best performances and fight for victory. It will be an exciting match to witness.

Match Day Live with Maharoof and Mumtaz

The live coverage of the match continues with expert analysis from Maharoof and Mumtaz. Their insights and commentary provide viewers with a deeper understanding of the game and the strategies employed by the teams.

Sri Lanka win the toss and bat first

Sri Lanka won the toss and decided to bat first. They have made one change to their lineup, with Maheesh Theekshana replacing Kasun Rajitha. Pakistan, on the other hand, have made a change too, bringing in Abdullah Shafique for the out-of-form Fakhar Zaman. Both teams are eager to make an impact in this crucial match.

One last time from Hyderabad

This is the final match in Hyderabad for the ICC World Cup. Pakistan has shown consistency in their performances, while Sri Lanka is looking to rebound after a defeat against South Africa. A win for Sri Lanka could help them bounce back and gain momentum, while Pakistan is aiming for their second consecutive victory. The match in Ahmedabad will be a highly anticipated showdown.

Live report by Danyal Rasool