Asia Cup 2023: Babar, Iftikhar centuries lead Pakistan to victory against Nepal

Multan: In a remarkable display of ODI batting prowess, Babar Azam crafted a brilliant innings of 151 off 131 balls, propelling Pakistan to a commanding victory of 238 runs over Nepal in the inaugural match of the 2023 Asia Cup.

Despite a challenging pitch in Multan, Nepal's early breakthroughs had Pakistan in a precarious situation. Babar Azam skillfully navigated this phase, taking 72 balls to reach his half-century. Gradually increasing his momentum, he surged from 51 to 100 in just 37 balls. Crossing the century mark, he unleashed a T20-style assault, scoring 51 runs in the following 22 balls.

Babar, alongside Iftikhar Ahmed, who contributed an unbeaten 109 off 71 balls, forged a dominant partnership of 214 runs off 131 balls for the fifth wicket, propelling Pakistan's total to 342 for 6. During the chase, Babar did not take the field, and Shadab Khan assumed captaincy responsibilities. However, Nepal struggled in response, getting bowled out for a mere 104 runs in 23.4 overs.

This marked Nepal's debut in the Asia Cup, and their first encounter with Pakistan in any format. Their inexperience and likely nerves were evident on multiple occasions. Despite an initial boundary spree by Fakhar Zaman, Nepal's tactical fielding on the sluggish pitch posed challenges for Pakistan's batsmen.

Asia Cup campaign begins in style! 💪

4️⃣ wickets for @76Shadabkhan as Pakistan achieve their third-highest margin of victory in ODIs ✨#PAKvNEP | #AsiaCup2023 pic.twitter.com/GmTk0tKCbp

— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) August 30, 2023

Although Pakistan was at 25 for 2, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan initiated a recovery. Employing cautious yet boundary-scoring cricket, they guided Pakistan to 100 runs by the 22nd over. However, Nepal's fielding once again intervened, with Dipendra Singh Airee's precise throw catching Rizwan short, as he attempted to evade a direct hit from cover.

Pakistan experienced further setbacks but Babar Azam remained undeterred. Employing cut shots against spin to rotate the strike, he reached his half-century in 72 balls. Subsequently, he accelerated, consistently finding boundaries, and completed his century in 109 balls. His acceleration continued, culminating in an impressive strike rate and significant contribution.

Nepal's fielding displayed inconsistencies throughout the match, alternately showcasing excellence and struggles. Babar capitalized on the lapses, frequently finding the boundary. He shifted to a higher gear in the 45th over, hitting consecutive boundaries and sixes, showcasing his control over the game's rhythm.

Babar's partnership with Iftikhar Ahmed played a pivotal role in enabling his gradual acceleration. Iftikhar exhibited an aggressive approach, striking a maiden ODI century in just 67 balls against Nepal's bowlers, who struggled to contain him. Their collective efforts led Pakistan to amass 129 runs in the final ten overs.

Shaheen Shah Afridi's two wickets in the opening over of Nepal's chase set the tone for Pakistan's bowlers. Despite Nepal's attempt to stabilize through partnerships, the quick pace of Haris Rauf proved formidable. Pakistan's fast bowlers were only briefly challenged by the weather conditions, seeking a respite after their initial spells.

Nepal's lower order found it difficult to counter Shadab Khan's variations, with the spinner securing four wickets for 27 runs.

Overall, Babar Azam's dominant century and Pakistan's comprehensive performance secured a resounding victory in their Asia Cup opener.