Asia Cup 2023
WATCH: Afghanistan and Pakistan fans get into verbal argument in third ODI of the series
Pakistan has regained its position as the leading team in ODI rankings. However, there is a notable concern regarding the looming presence of India as they approach the Asia Cup.
The Pakistan team have secured a series win against the mighty Afghanistan team after the Pakistan team won the third ODI match by 59 runs and with this win they have also signed off the series with a score line of 3-0. It is always a treat to watch the match whenever these two teams clash against each other. The tempers as well as verbal arguments have been reported on the field in recent times.
But this time, a recent was reported where there was a verbal spat between which was recorded among the fans who had come to witness the match. A video that surfaced on the internet showed that fans from Afghanistan as well as Pakistan were seen arguing with each other over an issue related to the way in which Pakistan were planning.
Here is the video from the incident:
Fans lafda in Afghanistan vs Pakistan match ?#PAKvAFG pic.twitter.com/n7pfRpOg0f
— Div? (@div_yumm) August 26, 2023
Pakistan became the number one-ranked ODI team in the world
Pakistan completed a dominant whitewash against Afghanistan in a three-match ODI series at R Premadasa Stadium. Despite a close 2nd ODI, Pakistan won comfortably in the third game, with Shadab Khan’s three wickets and Mohammad Rizwan’s 67 off 79 contributing to their 59-run victory. This triumph helped Pakistan regain the No. 1 ODI ranking, although a strong challenge from India awaits in the upcoming Asia Cup.
In the series, Pakistan’s clinical bowling and partnerships between Babar Azam and Rizwan proved pivotal. Afghanistan struggled to chase Pakistan’s target of 269, crumbling to 209 in the final game. This series win propelled Pakistan to the top of the Men’s ODI Rankings, narrowly surpassing Australia.
Having excelled in the format for over a year, Pakistan previously swept the West Indies and Netherlands and triumphed over New Zealand and Australia. Their upcoming Asia Cup participation as the No. 1 ranked side is met with competition from India, positioned third with the potential to overtake their rivals. Pakistan begins the tournament as favourites against Nepal, with a win securing their place atop the rankings. However, a clash against India could alter their standing.
A win against India would solidify their leadership, while a loss would prompt a battle alongside India for the top position. Thus, Pakistan’s journey in the Asia Cup will determine its ranking fate and its ability to maintain its place as the premier ODI team.