Fakhar Zaman was named the player of the match. We send our thoughts and prayers to Rachin Ravindra, who scored his third century of the tournament, and to all the players of New Zealand as they scored over 400 runs but ultimately lost.

Fakhar’s performance caused the New Zealand team to feel anxious, as his innings was impressive especially since he was only recently added to the starting lineup. He scored 126 runs, hitting eight fours and eleven sixes. At the beginning of Pakistan’s innings, Trent Boult was not effective with the ball, and when spinners Santner, Sodhi, and Phillips were brought in, Fakhar dominated by hitting the ball high and far into the night sky of Bengalaru.

Fakhar speaks:

Our strategy was to wait out the first few overs, and although I got fortunate a couple of times, I truly relished this match. We are aware that every game is crucial for our success. In our team discussions, we agreed to play with an aggressive mindset, and everyone was determined to score as many runs as possible.

“This has been one of my most impressive centuries, and I will always cherish my score of 193 against South Africa. However, this latest performance is also among my best. Moving forward, we aim to maintain our aggressive style of play in our upcoming matches.”

The umpires have signaled for a break in play in Bengaluru due to heavy and consistent rain. The players have exchanged handshakes and both teams currently have eight points on the scoreboard.

If it continues to rain in Bengalaru for the next 40 minutes, the match between Pakistan and the opposing team will be cancelled.

According to Cole Hunter’s statement in the OBO mailbag, this formula does not consider the fact that they are attempting to achieve a score of 400. He also mentions that if they lose one more wicket, their chances of success will be significantly diminished.

The DLS permits the team that is behind to adjust their strategy according to the circumstances, while the team that is bowling is expected to adapt. It may be challenging, but it is also just.

While it is true, Cole, that DLS can simplify things for the batting team, let’s not forget the time South Africa needed 21 runs off one ball in Sydney back in 1992. That was quite a difficult task.

No! The light drizzle falling for the last over or so got a bit heavier and the umpires signalled for the covers half way through Daryll Mitchell’s first and New Zealand’s 26th over.

Pakistan currently has a lead of 21 runs according to the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method. As the players remain off the field, the remaining overs will decrease, which will work in favor of the green team.

In the 25th over of the match, Pakistan’s score is now 199-1, with Zaman at 125 runs and Babar at 66 runs. Sodhi is hit for a six by Babar Azam, who read the googly and hit it hard. Fakhar then takes a single and is now up to bat. He hits another six by dropping to one knee and hitting a powerful sweep over the leg side boundary. He follows it up with another six, this one even bigger, with the sound of the bat echoing around the stadium. This over earns Pakistan twenty runs, showing their strong performance in the match.

At the 24th over, Pakistan’s score is 179-1 with Zaman at 112 and Babar at 59. Boult makes a mistake by bowling to Fakhar’s legs and he gets four runs through midwicket. Today, Boult has been surprisingly ineffective and looks upset. His face is constantly frowning, as my father would say, “looking like his top lip has gone bad.” The over results in seven runs.

In the 23rd over, Pakistan’s score is 172 for 1 with Zaman at 107 and Babar at 57. Ish Sodhi takes over from the other end and his first delivery is a poor one, a long-hop that Babar easily capitalizes on, steering it for four runs. This boundary brings up Babar’s half century with a seemingly effortless shot. As the team’s captain, Babar is aware that there is still work to be done. The next ball is flighted and Babar elegantly drives it through the covers for another four, even holding his pose for added effect. The over results in a total of twelve runs for Pakistan, putting pressure on New Zealand to take wickets quickly.

In the 22nd over, Pakistan’s score is 159-1 with Zaman at 106 and Babar at 47. The players take the field and Trent Boult has three balls remaining in his fifth over. He begins with three consecutive dot balls. Although the required rate is increasing, Pakistan is not worried about the revised target.

Indeed, the calculations have been completed in Bengaluru.

Due to the rain, nine overs have been lost, resulting in a 41-over chase.

Pakistan’s goal is to reach 342 runs. They currently need 182 runs within 19.3 overs and have nine wickets remaining.

Game on!

Australia has set England a goal of scoring 287 runs in Ahmedabad.

I am uncertain if Jos Buttler’s eyes can appear any sadder, but if his team is unable to score enough runs, England will be required to win both of their remaining matches in order to potentially qualify for the next Champions Trophy in 2025.

Is it safe to say that the Dutch will defeat England on Wednesday? I can already envision it happening. Bring on the Orange Crush.

Leash me, don’t restrain me.

An inspection will take place in Bengalaru at 6pm, which is approximately ten minutes from now. The covers will be removed, making for an exciting event.

It is alive. It is able to breathe. It moves about. However, it is worth mentioning that it does so with a limp, wheezing, and a noticeable emptiness in its eyes…

No England team has ever lost so many games at a World Cup. No England team has ever reached the stage of outright tournament bottom-feeders. No England team has ever made the startling nosedive from 50-over champions to one of the worst iterations at any World Cup – and better still done so without any obvious process, warning signs, change of approach, or indeed the slightest clue as to how this could have happened.”

Barney is currently in Ahmedabad and appears to be in good condition despite the impending doom.

I have received word that the rain has stopped in Bengalaru and an inspection is expected. I will update you with any new information as soon as it becomes available.

At this time, I will excuse you for switching over to the England vs Australia OBO where Jonathan and Tanya make an excellent duo.

It is currently raining lightly in Bengalaru and the covers are still in place.

The sun is visible in south London.

The potential outcome of the New Zealand-Pakistan match could have a significant impact on England’s chances. Even if they were to defeat Australia, it would not change their fate. This could mean the end for Buttler and his team.

If Pakistan emerges victorious, England may still have a chance if they defeat Australia. However, if Australia defeats England, they will be eliminated regardless of other outcomes.

Do you understand? As clear as day.

Oh no. The covers are being put on as a rain shower moves over the playing field in Bengalaru. It seems like there is a strong wind, so hopefully it will pass quickly and we can continue watching this exciting match.

Pakistan has scored 160 runs for the loss of one wicket in 21.3 overs. According to the DLS (Duckworth-Lewis-Stern) method, Pakistan is currently leading by 10 runs. The DLS calculation indicates that the par score for this stage of the match is 150 runs for the loss of one wicket.

The rest will be a relief for New Zealand as they can regroup and recover. The major concern for Pakistan upon resuming play will be if Fakhar can continue his strong performance. It’s a thought-provoking scenario no matter how you look at it.

In the 21st over, Pakistan’s score is 159-1 with Zaman at 106 and Babar at 47. During Glenn Phillips’ over, seven runs were scored. Fakhar skillfully sweeps for a four behind square and it is imperative for him to continue playing in this manner for his team. If he maintains this momentum for the next ten overs, this match has the potential to become an exciting and intense battle.

In the 20th over, Pakistan has scored 152 runs for the loss of one wicket, with Zaman scoring 101 runs and Babar scoring 44 runs. Fakhar is on the verge of reaching his century after hitting a powerful shot towards the leg side. He seems to be in full beast mode, similar to Ben Stokes, and has successfully reached a hundred runs.

In just 64 deliveries, he has made a significant contribution! Removing his helmet, he kneels down and kisses the ground in a moment of triumph. The atmosphere is electric. Fakhar is instilling hope in Pakistan during this World Cup.

In the 19th over, Pakistan’s score is 138-1 with Zaman at 93 and Babar at 38. After a break for drinks, the first ball is hit for a six by Fakhar over cover and into the Pakistan dugout. The over yields eleven runs, with Babar playing subtle shots and Fakhar hitting aggressively, now nearing the 90s.

In the 18th over of the match, Pakistan’s score is 127-1 with Zaman at 85 and Babar at 35. Santner and Fakhar engage in a strategic game, with the spinner ultimately coming out on top by only allowing two runs. Fakhar is eager to hit boundaries but Santner cleverly varies his delivery length and flight. It’s time for a break as Pakistan is currently two runs shy of the target they need to be at (129-1) in case rain interrupts play. I’ll be keeping an eye on the weather and the score.

In the 17th over, Pakistan’s score is 125-1 with Zaman at 84 runs and Babar at 34 runs. Fakhar is in top form, hitting a massive six and two consecutive fours for a total of fifteen runs in the over. The sky is getting darker in Bengalaru, prompting thoughts about Pakistan’s potential Duckworth Lewis/Stern calculations.

In the 16th over, Pakistan’s score is 110-1 with Zaman at 70 runs and Babar at 33 runs. Babar Azam seems to be struggling, having only scored 33 runs off 37 balls and causing his partner to feel pressured. Sodhi’s over only results in four singles, so it seems like a breakthrough is imminent.

In the 15th over, Pakistan’s score is 106-1 with Zaman at 68 and Babar at 31. Zaman is on a rampage, hitting consecutive sixes over long on off Glenn Phillips’ bowling. The second six was particularly massive. Zaman has now hit a total of thirteen sixes in this World Cup and is really unleashing his shots in Bengalaru.

In the fourteenth over, Pakistan’s score is 91-1 with Zaman at 54 and Babar at 30. Ish Sodhi takes the ball for New Zealand and Zaman smoothly guides it for a four to third. His skillful touch complements his powerful shots. Zaman adds eight runs to his total and reaches 50, showing his determination.

In the 13th over, Pakistan’s score is 83-1 with Zaman at 47 runs and Babar at 29 runs. They score five runs off Glenn Phillips’ second over. Pakistan seems unsatisfied with just scoring ones and twos, while Babar is struggling to score quickly.

In the 12th over, Pakistan’s score is 77-1 with Zaman scoring 43 runs and Babar scoring 25 runs. New Zealand is applying some pressure, as Santner’s over only allows three runs. As a result, the run-rate is starting to decrease.

Let’s talk about Rachin Ravindra – just how impressive has he been in this competition? To be honest, this World Cup hasn’t been the most exciting (at least not yet), but Ravindra’s rise has been truly remarkable.

In the 11th over, Pakistan’s score is 75 for 1 with Zaman at 43 runs and Babar at 25 runs. Glenn Phillips comes in to bowl and Zaman struggles to score off him. Phillips bowls a maiden over, and Andy Zaltzman mentions on TMS that this is Phillips’ first ever maiden in ODI cricket.

In the tenth over, Pakistan’s score is 75 for 1 wicket (with Fakhar Zaman scoring 43 runs and Babar Azam scoring 25 runs). Fakhar Zaman hits another six by moving down the pitch and lofting Mitchell Santner for a maximum. The over yields eight runs, if this pace continues for the remaining 40 overs, Pakistan will have an easy win.

In the 9th over, Pakistan’s score is 67 for 1 with Zaman at 36 and Babar at 24. Southee takes over for Boult and bowls from the other end. Fakhar hits a shot through midwicket for four and then swings his bat to hit a six, just out of reach of the fielder on the boundary. Eleven runs are scored in the over, keeping Pakistan’s momentum going.

In the eighth over, Pakistan’s score is 56-1 with Zaman at 26 and Babar at 23. Mitch Santner enters the game with his box of spinners. He begins with two dot balls before Fakhar guides one to the leg side, allowing Babar to take strike. Santner’s delivery is too short and Babar hits it high and far over cow corner for a six. The over yields eight runs, increasing their partnership to fifty and keeping Pakistan’s run rate high.

After seven overs, Pakistan’s score is 48 for 1 with Zaman at 25 and Babar at 16. Trent Boult’s four overs have resulted in 42 runs, possibly making it his most costly opening spell in an ODI game. We’ll provide updates as they become available.

Fakhar hits his first delivery for a six over long-on! Boult is struggling, throwing a wide ball down the leg side. Babar gets a lucky edge through the unoccupied slip area for four, and follows it up with a front foot punch for another boundary on the final ball. Come on, Trent.

In the sixth over, Pakistan’s score is 32 for 1 with Zaman at 18 and Babar at 8. Southee’s over results in three runs, bringing some peace to the game.

Cockle warmer:

In the fifth over of the match, Pakistan scored 29 runs for the loss of one wicket. Fakhar took advantage of Trent Boult’s bowling and hit him for 17 runs, including a six and a four. Boult’s next delivery was also dispatched for six by Fakhar with an impressive shot. Babar then came on strike and scored two runs through midwicket before ending the over with a boundary. Boult was left disheartened and walked off the field.

In the fourth over, Pakistan’s score is 12 runs for 1 wicket, with Zaman scoring 6 and Babar scoring 1. Babar and Fakhar play cautiously, as Southee throws in slower balls and cutters. Babar opens his account with a shot to the off side and the over ends with just one more single.

“A lesser-known advantage of having the greatest of all time back on the team is the improved catching ability – New Zealand has been dropping those types of opportunities frequently in the past three games. A highly talented cricket player.”

Ben Bernards, located in snowy Sweden, sends an email expressing his gratitude for that impressive catch. Kane is continuing to prove his abilities, causing a *GROAN* reaction.

In the third over, Pakistan’s score is 10-1 with Zaman at 5 runs and Babar at 0. Babar’s exceptional skills will be crucial for Pakistan’s success in this match. Currently, he is standing at the non-striker’s end while Boult prepares to bowl to Fakhar Zaman. The first delivery is hit for a four through point, much to Boult’s frustration. He then follows it up with four dot balls.

WHAT. A. CATCH.

Kane Williamson shrugs off the fact that he’s fresh off an ACL injury and a broken thumb and leaps backwards to pluck a lofted drive from Shafique out of the sky like a fresh peach. New Zealand have an early scalp and here comes Babar Azam.

The experienced Tim Southee begins his bowling with a successful wicket and only concedes one run in his first over.

In the second over, Pakistan’s score is 6 for 1 wicket, with Zaman scoring 1 run and Babar scoring 0.

The first over begins with Pakistan at 5-0, with Shafique scoring 4 runs and Zaman at 0. Trent Boult has the new ball and will be bowling to Fakhar Zaman and Abdullah Shafique. Pakistan needs a quick start as the required run rate is currently around eight per over. Boult starts with two dot balls, but Shafique manages to hit the third ball for four runs over mid-wicket! Boult responds with a yorker that Shafique does well to defend. A wide ball gives Pakistan an extra run, which they could use as they attempt their largest ever ODI chase. However, this is a big challenge. The first over results in five runs, and life is starting to look better for Pakistan.

Disregard that, the light rain has stopped and the ground has been inspected – the players are now approaching. The first over is about to begin…

There is a slight drizzle in Bengalaru that is causing a delay in Pakistan’s innings starting. Hopefully, it won’t be too long before they begin – those 402 runs won’t score themselves.

Small mercies:

Greetings Rob and fellow readers. I must admit, I am slightly hungover this morning due to excessive celebration after our Friday night five-a-side football match. There was much to discuss and analyze. Perhaps a high-scoring game by Pakistan will improve my mood? It’s possible. However, it would be quite satisfying to see New Zealand easily defeat Babar Azam’s team within a short period of time.

I am finished for now. Jim Wallace will take over for the runchase (sic), and you can keep up with the England v Australia match in Ahmedabad. Goodbye!

Where to start? With Rachin Ravindra, of course. He top-scored with a charming 108, his third century of a never-to-be-forgotten World Cup debut, and added 180 for the second wicket with Kane Williamson in less than 23 overs. Williamson was eye-catchingly fluent on his return, hitting 95 from 79 balls.

The platform enabled the aggressive players in the middle lineup to create chaos, and everyone except Tom Latham (who only faced two balls) had a strike rate of 140 or higher.

Pakistan’s bowlers did not perform well, as Shaheen Afridi (10 overs, 90 runs, 0 wickets) and Haris Rauf (10 overs, 85 runs, 1 wicket) had their most expensive spells in World Cup history. Hasan Ali also struggled, giving up 82 runs. However, newcomer Mohammad Wasim stood out with 3 wickets for 60 runs.

The playing field has exceeded expectations, especially when the faster bowlers are in action. However, it is difficult to imagine how Pakistan, a team that has never successfully chased a score of 350 or higher in a One Day International match, let alone 400, can achieve victory. This is made even more challenging by the fact that New Zealand has four spinners on their team.

Nick Parish notes that although it may be stated in a casual manner, it’s quite surprising that New Zealand has achieved their highest score in a World Cup, especially against Pakistan in the sub-continent. This is noteworthy considering the many matches they have played against weaker teams such as Zimbabwe, Ireland, and Bangladesh over the years, not to mention England.

I am feeling disoriented after four weeks of organizing these running events. Additionally, to be fair, the way Conway and Ravindra were hitting against England, they most likely would have scored 500 runs if needed.

In the 50th over, New Zealand’s score is 401-6 with Santner at 26 and Latham at 2. Santner hits Afridi’s third-last delivery for a six over long off, setting two new records. This is the highest score for New Zealand in a World Cup and Afridi surpasses Haris Rauf’s record for the worst figures by a Pakistani bowler in a World Cup match.

Santner steals three runs from the final two deliveries, pushing New Zealand’s total over 400 and just shy of their top ODI score of 402. I don’t believe I’ve mentioned it before, but Pakistan chose to have New Zealand bat first.

In the 49th over, New Zealand’s score is 388-6 with Santner at 15 and Latham at 1. Latham scores a single from Wasim’s last ball. Wasim has been the standout bowler with figures of 10-0-60-3.

Santner hits a six over long-off against Wasim, adding yet another boundary in the first ball of the over. Phillips also gets a four with a powerful shot through the covers, but Wasim’s comeback is remarkable. He recognizes Phillips’ movement and delivers a wide ball just within the tramlines.

On the next ball, Wasim attempts again but his delivery is too wide. He then alters his strategy and aims for a yorker to bowl Phillips, but instead it hits his pad and bounces onto the stumps. This was an impressive display from the talented bowler, marking the end of an intense innings of 41 runs off 25 balls, including four fours and two sixes.

In the 48th over, New Zealand’s score is 376-5 with Phillips at 37 and Santner at 8. Salman Ali Agha drops a difficult catch while diving near the boundary. Afridi had been performing well with different deliveries, but his over is spoiled when Phillips hits a six off a low full toss over long-on.

New Zealand requires 18 runs in 12 deliveries to achieve their highest score in a World Cup match, and 27 runs for their highest total in a One Day International.

In the 47th over, New Zealand’s score is 366-5 with Phillips scoring 30 and Santner scoring 6. Despite the difficult situation, Pakistan’s Mohammad Wasim has been performing well. He finishes off another impressive over with four singles and a two, as he outpaces Phillips.

Pakistan is dominating in the field, giving them the opportunity to have four players outside the circle for the final three overs.

I had a similar belief about Basit Ali during the Caribbean tour of 1992-93. In sports, predictions are often uncertain and this is especially true for Pakistan cricket.