PAK vs NZ World Cup 2023: What will happen if overs are reduced due to rain?

WEB DESK: In a thrilling encounter at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, India, Pakistan faced off against New Zealand in the 35th match of the ICC World Cup 2023 on Saturday. The excitement was momentarily halted as rain forced a pause in the game.

As of the latest update, Pakistan had reached a formidable score of 160-1 in 21.3 overs, with Fakhar Zaman batting at an impressive 106* and Babar Azam at 47*.

The rain interruption came when Pakistan was comfortably ahead, with a 10-run lead according to the DLS score.

If Pakistan successfully pursues this target, it would mark a historic moment in World Cup history, constituting the largest chase ever accomplished in the tournament.

However, the rain-induced disruptions have led to revised targets, contingent upon the reduction of overs:

If the match is reduced to 45 overs, Pakistan’s target would be 370, necessitating 210 runs in 23.3 overs.

If reduced to 40 overs, the target would be 335, requiring 175 runs in 18.3 overs.

If limited to 35 overs, the target would be 297, with Pakistan needing 137 runs in 13.3 overs.

If constrained to 30 overs, the target would be 252 runs, and Pakistan would require 92 runs in 8.3 overs.

Fakhar Zaman showcased his exceptional talent by achieving the fastest century for Pakistan in a World Cup match, achieving this feat in just 63 balls, surpassing the previous record set by Imran Nazir in 2007.

Earlier in the match, New Zealand, batting first, posted a formidable total of 401-6. Key contributions came from Rachin Ravindra (108), Kane Williamson (95), and Glenn Phillips (41).

Mark Chapman (39), Daryl Mitchell (29), and Mitchell Santner (26) also played crucial roles in building the Black Caps’ innings.

According to Geo Super, Williamson, who had recovered from knee surgery just before the tournament, returned to the team but was unfortunate to fall for 95 after an impressive 180-run partnership with Ravindra.

It’s worth noting that Pakistan won the toss and chose to field. Williamson, who had recently recuperated from knee surgery, returned to action but suffered a thumb fracture during the match against Bangladesh in Chennai on October 13, which caused him to miss subsequent games.

The match remains poised on a knife’s edge, with both teams eagerly awaiting the opportunity to resume play and determine the outcome of this high-stakes encounter.