Virtuoso performances from Indian bowlers restricted Pakistan to a meagre total of 241 in 49.4 overs, with Kuldeep Yadav and Hardik Pandya claiming three and two wickets respectively. Electing to bat in the fifth match of the Champions Trophy on Sunday in Dubai, Pakistan got a fine start with the help of openers Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq playing some fine shots.
Babar Azam, who was looking impressive, dealing in boundaries, was dismissed by Hardik Pandya, dismantling Pakistan’s smooth start. Soon after Babar, Imam-ul-Haq was run out by Axar Patel, complicating the situation for Pakistan.
However, skipper Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel put on a major 104-run partnership to guide Pakistan out of trouble. They both led Pakistan’s recovery from 47 for 2. The unrelenting pressure applied by Indian pacers put Pakistan on the back foot as they scrambled to stitch partnerships.
Down the order, reliable player Salman Ali Agha couldn’t also make a huge contribution, giving away his wicket for 19. Meanwhile, Pakistan's last recognised batter Khushdil Shah made brilliant efforts, playing a fine knock of 38 before losing his wicket to Harshit Rana. India were also helped by Axar Patel, Harshit Rana and Ravindra Jadeja, who all claimed one wicket each to bowl Pakistan out for 241.