This archive report was first published on 29 June 2019.
June 29, 2019 - In a nail-biting World Cup match, Pakistan narrowly escaped defeat against Afghanistan, securing a three-wicket win with just two balls to spare.
Chasing a modest 228-run target, Pakistan found themselves in grave danger at 156 for six, but all-rounder Imad Wasim (49 not out) and Shadab Khan (11) put on a crucial 50-run partnership for the seventh wicket to revive their hopes.
Imad Wasim's man-of-the-match performance was marked by his determination to bat out the 50 overs and see, as he said, "When I went in they were bowling brilliantly but I just hung in there."
He also praised Afghanistan's captain Gulbadin Naib, saying, "Gulbadin was the only one who could be targeted. They have world-class spinners so we attacked him."
Naib, however, was disappointed with his team's performance, saying, "We fight really well, the boys gave 100 percent but in the end we missed an opportunity to win the match."
With this win, Pakistan has lifted themselves into fourth place in the 10-team table, above hosts England after a poor start to the tournament.
