STATS: Pakistan register their second-lowest total in World Cup against West Indies

Pakistan registered their second lowest total in World Cup game at the Trent Bridge in Nottingham, when they were shot down for 105 runs in the second match of the 2019 Cricket World Cup against West Indies on Friday. After put into bat first, Pakistan batsmen found the going it tough against one of the most potent attack in international cricket currently. Fast bowler Oshane Thomas claimed four for 27 while skipper Jason Holder returned three for 42 while Andre Russell added two for 4.

The men-in-green registered their lowest World Cup total against England in 1992 when they were bundledout for mere 74 runs at Adelaide in Australia. This remains to be seen, if the likes of Wahab Riaz, Mohammad Amir, and Shadab Khan restrict the opposition batsmen. If that happens, it will be nothing short of miracle. 

For Pakistan, Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman scored the highest runs with both finishing for 22. Wahab Riaz's 18 off 11 delivereis eventually helped the team to go past three-figure mark, eventually looking a little respectful. The third lowest total for the team is 132 runs which they scored against Australia and Ireland in 1992 and 2007 respectively. 

In response, Chris Gayle and Shai Hope started the innings in fine fashion, registering a crucial 36-run stand before Shai Hope was sent back to the pavilion by Pakistan’s experienced campaigner Mohammad Amir. He bowled a short of length delivery just outside off and Hope went for an aerial punch through the off-side. He was taken aback by the extra bounce and the ball ballooned up off the top part of the bat. Hafeez kept his eyes on the ball and completed the catch with ease.

His departure led Darren Bravo to the crease, who didn’t trouble the scorers. However, Pooran along with set Chris Gayle strung a crucial partnership of 31 runs. In this process, the latter scored his 52nd fifty. His innings was laced with six boundaries and three mighty sixes.

Once Gayle was dismissed in 11th over, and Windies already saw themselves at 77 runs. With just 29 runs to score in 39 overs, Pooran and Hetmyer played with responsibility to help Windies start their World Cup campaign on high.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Pakistan registered their second lowest total in World Cup. 
• Oshane Thomas finished with four wickets. 
• Chris Gayle registered their 52nd fifty.