Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar admitted that rain came to Pakistan’s rescue in their Asia Cup 2023 Super-4 clash against India in Colombo on Sunday (September 10).

Akhtar, who travelled to Sri Lanka’s capital to witness the marquee encounter, was critical of Babar Azam’s decision to bowl first after winning the toss.

The Pakistan captain’s backfired badly as Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill took the opposition attack to the cleaners. The duo stitched a 121-run partnership to set the foundation of India’s massive total.

While Rohit was dismissed for 49-ball 56, Gill departed after scoring 58. Virat Kohli (8*) and KL Rahul (17*) were trying to rebuild when the heavens opened up and the play was called off for the day, with India at 147/2 in 24.2 overs.

There is a reserve day in place for this game and Akhtar is looking forward to see the action on Monday (September 11).

“Hey guys, it’s me Shoaib, match dekhne aaya tha, hum sare fans bhi wait kar rahe hai, Indians bhi Pakistani bhi. Lekin barish ne bacha liya humein, finally! Pehle India phass gya tha humare aagey, barish ne bacha lia. Aaj hum phas gaye the India ke samne, shukr hai barish ne bach lia. (I came to watch the match, we are all waiting, Indian and Pakistani fans. Rain saved us, rain saved India the other day, but today rain saved us!)," Akhtar said in a video posted on his official X account.

“Hope match can finish off and we’ll be able to resume this time tomorrow, and by making a wise decision not to bowl first," he added.

Notably, the group-stage match between India and Pakistan in Pallekele was abandoned due to rain on September 2.

Opting to bat first, the Men in Blue were bowled out for 266 in 48.5 overs. However, Pakistan’s innings couldn’t take place due to incessant drizzle and the game was called off.