India vs Pakistan World Cup 2023: Match Report | India’s exhilarating win against Pakistan catapults it to the top of the points table

financialexpress.com:

India vs Pakistan ICC ODI World Cup 2023: India delivered a stunning performance at the Cricket World Cup by overpowering arch-rivals Pakistan with a seven-wicket victory. This victory marked India’s eighth consecutive win against Pakistan in World Cups, extending a streak that commenced in 1992. This marquee match, touted as a battle without firearms, initially triggered immense excitement, logistical challenges, and fervor among fans.

In pursuit of a 192-run target, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma played a stellar role, storming to a 36-ball half-century. Sharma’s explosive 86 off 63 balls, which included six fours and six sixes, propelled India to a resounding victory with 19.3 overs to spare. It was a near-perfect performance that showcased India’s dominance, making it one of the most remarkable World Cup encounters between the arch-rivals.

During the chase, Shubman Gill, returning from an injury, set a brisk pace with four boundaries, scoring 16 off 11 balls before being dismissed by Shaheen Afridi (2-36) in his comeback innings. Subsequently, Sharma and Virat Kohli established a steady partnership of 56 runs off 42 balls for the second wicket, maintaining control and denying Pakistan any opportunities to make a comeback. Kohli’s dismissal in the 10th over, attempting a false pull shot off Hasan Ali, briefly interrupted the flow.

Rohit Sharma then combined with Shreyas Iyer, contributing 77 runs off 71 balls for the third wicket, enabling India to reach the 100-run mark in just 13.5 overs. Rohit Sharma’s innings ended 14 runs short of his eighth World Cup century, caught at midwicket off Shaheen Afridi’s slower delivery. Iyer and Lokesh Rahul (19 not out) ensured a smooth finish, adding 36 runs for the unbeaten fourth