In a remarkable display of skill, Kuldeep Yadav secured a five-wicket haul, while Virat Kohli and KL Rahul delivered unbeaten centuries, propelling India to a resounding 228-run victory over Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023 Super 4 match held in Colombo.
Originally scheduled for Sunday, the game was moved to a reserve day due to rain but concluded with India’s emphatic performance both with the bat and ball. Resuming at 147 for 2 in 24.1 overs on Monday, with Kohli and Rahul at the crease, India amassed a formidable total of 356 for 2 in their allotted 50 overs.
Kohli showcased his batting prowess by scoring an unbeaten 122, while Rahul contributed an outstanding 111 not out, steering India to an imposing total. Adding to India’s dominance, Kuldeep Yadav claimed remarkable figures of 5 for 25.
Following this comprehensive victory, India has ascended to the top position in the Asia Cup 2023 Super 4 points table. With two points to their name, they have further bolstered their position with an impressive net run rate (NRR) of +4.560.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has slid to the third spot with an NRR of -1.892.
Sri Lanka currently occupies the second position with an NRR of +0.420, while Bangladesh resides at the bottom of the four-team table with an NRR of -0.749.
Reflecting on the match, Kohli’s exceptional fitness was evident as he notched his 47th ODI century. At the same time, Rahul, making a comeback, produced an equally compelling century performance. India comfortably outclassed a lackluster Pakistan, securing victory by an astounding margin of 228 runs in a contest marred by rain.
This victory marks India’s largest-ever win against their arch-rivals in terms of runs, underscoring their dominant performance in the Asia Cup 2023.