The most explosive and most awaited match of the ICC World Cup 2019 went underway at the Old Trafford ground in Manchester as India took on Pakistan in the 22nd match of the tournament amidst huge crowd support for both sides.
The stands were filled to the brim as Virat and Sarfaraz walked out for the toss, which was won by Pakistan and Sarfaraz chose to bowl first under overcast conditions. India had a new opening partnership in ODIs for the first time as KL Rahul moved up the order to partner Rohit Sharma in Dhawan’s absence, while Vijay Shankar came in as his replacement. Pakistan meanwhile brought in two spinners in Imad Wasim and Shadab Khan.
Indian openers started off brilliantly, with Rahul biding his time, and Rohit going after the bowlers. The duo added 136 runs in 24 overs with Rahul making 57. Rohit completed his 50 in just 34 balls and went onto complete his 24th ODI and second century in this World Cup in 85 balls. He was finally dismissed for 140 runs with 14 fours and 3 sixes. Kohli and Rohit added 98 runs for the second wicket.
Rain interrupted the proceeding for a good amount of time, but Indian innings resumed with no overs lost. Virat Kohli (77 in 65 balls), with the help of Hardik Pandya (26 off 19 balls) took India to 336/5 runs in their 50 overs. Mohammad Amir was the pick of bowlers with figures of 3/47 in 10 overs.
