‘Kudrat ka nizam zinda hai’ – Fans react as Pakistan defeat New Zealand by 21 runs by DLS method in ODI World Cup 2023

Match number 35 of the ODI World Cup 2023 saw a very crucial match for both the teams New Zealand and Pakistan. The match ended unusually as rain gods interrupted the show which saw Pakistan winning the match by 21 runs according to the DLS method. With this win, the Pakistan team stayed alive in the competition.

Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, won the toss and opted to field first, a decision that proved astute in hindsight, given the later rain interruption. Before the weather played a role, Bengaluru witnessed a high-scoring encounter as New Zealand posted a massive total of 401 runs in their allotted 50 overs. The standout performers for New Zealand were Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson, who both batted brilliantly.

Ravindra notched up his century, becoming the third centurion of the tournament. He scored 108 runs off 94 balls. Meanwhile, Kane Williamson made a strong return to the team, contributing 95 runs from 79 deliveries. With valuable contributions from Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, and Mitchell Santner, New Zealand amassed a formidable total of 401 runs on the scoreboard.

Fakhar Zaman was the star of the show for the Pakistan team

While chasing the colossal 402-run target, Pakistan faced an early setback with the dismissal of their in-form opener, Abdullah Shafique, in the second over. However, Fakhar Zaman, appearing in only his third game of the tournament, delivered a remarkable batting display that took centre stage in Bengaluru.

The prolific left-handed batsman achieved the fastest century ever by a Pakistani, reaching the milestone in just 63 balls. He remained unbeaten on 126 runs, facing 81 balls, including 8 fours and 11 sixes. Unfortunately, the match was interrupted by rain. Nevertheless, Pakistan maintained a lead of 10 runs, as per the DLS method, in their pursuit of 342 runs to keep their tournament hopes alive.

Babar Azam, batting from the other end, provided valuable support to Zaman. The duo ensured that Pakistan stayed ahead of New Zealand in the run chase based on the DLS method. During the first rain interruption, Pakistan was 10 runs ahead of the par score. In the second and more extended interruption, they were 21 runs ahead of the DLS par score, securing them the victory. Fakhar Zaman’s remarkable innings earned him the Player of the Match award. Babar Azam, the right-handed batsman, also contributed with 66 runs, including six boundaries and two sixes.

Let us look at how Twitter has reacted to this win;

FAKHAR ZAMAN PLAYED AN ICONIC INNINGS EVER IN ODI HISTORY….!!!

If there is a big stage, Pakistan should call Fakhar and he has proved again at Chinnaswamy – An absolute blockbuster to remember ever. pic.twitter.com/I4Ik3gSnST

— Mintu Dutta (@MNGamin65372627) November 4, 2023

DLS is always controversial
And New Zealand is always unlucky 🥲

— Sindhi Chhokro (@Piyush_seerwani) November 4, 2023

This world cup is getting interesting

— CricXtra (@CricXtra_) November 4, 2023

Unbelievable win but still won't reach semis

— Shubman Gang (@ShubmanGang) November 4, 2023

Kudrat ka Nizam real bc😭😭😆

— Akanksha 🫶 (@aakaanshaaaa) November 4, 2023

Rain saved Pakistan

— Sankott (@Iamsankot) November 4, 2023

India se toh dono hi haar gaye

— Tarun (@heytarunn) November 4, 2023

So are we heading towards Pak vs Ind semifinal ?

— Mirza Hassan 🇰🇼🇵🇰 (@mirzasays_) November 4, 2023