Pakistan began their T20 World Cup campaign with a thrilling three-wicket win over the Netherlands in the opening match of the tournament in Colombo on Saturday. They achieved the 148-run target in 19.3 overs for the loss of seven wickets, with a brilliant performance from tail order’s Faheem Ashraf.
Ashraf smashed three sixes and two fours to score a crucial 29 runs off 11 balls, helping his side to win the thriller. Pakistan began their chase of 148 in style with Saim Ayub bringing in the runs early on before eventually falling in the third over for 24.
The powerplay overs saw Pakistan pile up the runs, getting themselves in a strong position with 65 runs off the first seven overs. Sahibzada Farhan made 47 runs. The Green Shirts landed in trouble after they lost five wickets in four overs. However, Faheem Ashraf displayed fireworks with the bat and secured the first win for Pakistan.