India Needs 242 to Win After Bowling Out Pakistan in Champions Trophy Clash
In today's Champions Trophy clash between India and Pakistan at the Dubai International Stadium, Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first. However, India's bowlers dominated, restricting Pakistan to 241 runs in 49.4 overs.
Saud Shakeel emerged as Pakistan’s top scorer with 62 runs, followed by captain Mohammad Rizwan with 46. Star batter Babar Azam managed 23 runs, while Khushdil Shah contributed 38.
Pakistan faced early setbacks, losing two wickets for just 47 runs. Hardik Pandya dismissed opener Babar Azam with a brilliant outswinger, while Imam-ul-Haq was run out following an exceptional throw by Axar Patel. At this stage, Saud Shakeel and captain Rizwan steadied the innings, forging a crucial 104-run partnership for the third wicket. Their solid stand hinted at a formidable total for Pakistan.
However, the breakthrough came when Axar Patel bowled Rizwan, ending the partnership. Shortly after, Hardik Pandya struck again, removing the well-set Saud Shakeel. With both key batters dismissed within a span of eight runs, Pakistan's collapse accelerated. Despite some resistance from Khushdil Shah, Pakistan could only manage a modest total.
India’s bowling attack was spearheaded by left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who took three wickets at crucial moments. Hardik Pandya claimed two, while Harshit Rana, Axar Patel, and Ravindra Jadeja took one wicket each.
With a target of 242 runs, Team India now has a straightforward chase ahead in this high-stakes encounter.