Gupta praises Abdullah Shafique over remarkable performance

In a remarkable turn of events at the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, Abdullah Shafique etched his name in history as the first Pakistani batsman to achieve a century on his World Cup debut.

His outstanding performance during Pakistan's match against Sri Lanka at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, India garnered praise from Indian sports journalist Vikrant Gupta.

Gupta, a prominent figure in the realm of Indian sports journalism, lauded Abdullah Shafique's exceptional batting prowess as he played a pivotal role in Pakistan's pursuit of a challenging target set by Sri Lanka, which stood at an imposing 345 runs. Expressing his surprise, Gupta questioned why the Pakistan selectors had not included Shafique in the team for previous matches, emphasizing his status as a "brilliant player."

Kamaal hai, why did Pakistan not play Abdullah Shafique before. He looks a brilliant player

Pakistan winning from here. #PAKvsSL #ICCCricketWorldCup

— Vikrant Gupta (@vikrantgupta73) October 10, 2023

Abdullah Shafique's inclusion in the lineup came as a replacement for the opening batsman Fakhar Zaman, who was omitted from the match due to inconsistent performances in earlier games. Shafique, alongside wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan, showcased their mettle by both achieving centuries, guiding Pakistan to a remarkable six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka and maintaining their unbeaten record in the tournament.

The match began with Sri Lanka winning the toss and opting to bat in conditions favorable to batting. Their innings culminated at 344-9 in 50 overs, largely propelled by the extraordinary centuries delivered by Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama. Mendis displayed remarkable form, amassing 122 runs from 77 balls, featuring an impressive tally of 14 boundaries and six maximums. Samarawickrama, too, made a significant contribution with 108 runs off 89 balls, comprising 11 fours and two sixes.

Opener Pathum Nissanka also contributed with a half-century, notching 51 runs from 61 balls, adorned with seven fours and a maximum. Among the Pakistani bowlers, Hasan Ali stood out, claiming four wickets for 71 runs in his 10 overs.

The Pakistani team faced a challenging start to their chase, finding themselves at 37-2 in pursuit of the 345-run target. However, Mohammad Rizwan and Abdullah Shafique orchestrated a stunning comeback, wresting control from Sri Lanka with their centuries.

Mohammad Rizwan emerged as the star performer, remaining unbeaten at 131 off 121 balls, featuring eight boundaries and three sixes. Abdullah Shafique's remarkable debut century comprised 113 runs from 103 balls, embellished with 10 fours and three sixes.