In the opening match of the ODI World Cup 2023, Pakistan defeated the Netherlands by 81 runs on Friday at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. Despite a top-order collapse, Pakistan managed to pile up 286/10 in 49 overs when batting first.With 68 runs each, Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel were the backbone of Pakistan’s comeback. With scores of 30 or more, Mohammad Nawaz and Shadab Khan also contributed significantly towards the finish.
In retaliation, the Netherlands got off to a respectable start, with Vikramjit Singh and Bas de Leede leading the way. In contrast to Bas de Leede, who was dispatched by Mohammad Nawaz for 67(68), Vikramjit struck 52(67) before being out against Shadab. After 41 overs, Netherlands were bowled out for 205.
As soon as Haris Rauf dismisses Paul van Meekeren for 7(12), the Netherlands innings is ended for 205 runs in 41 overs.
By 81 runs, Pakistan triumphs.
