India decimated Pakistan by seven wickets to stretch their ODI World Cup winning streak to 8-0 at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. Rohit Sharma played an 86-run knock while Shreyas Iyer remained unbeaten on 53* runs to take India over the line with 117 balls to spare.
India registered their third consecutive win in the tournament to top the points table with six points. Men in Blue have displaced New Zealand from the top spot due to a better net run rate than Kiwis.
India chased down the modest target of 192 with 19.3 overs to spare.
The bowling department played a pivotal role in India's triumph with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj exhibiting formidable performances. Their collective effort, along with contributions from Kuldeep, Hardik Pandya, and Ravindra Jadeja, limited Pakistan to 192 runs in 42.5 overs. With the third consecutive win in the marquee tournament, India secured the top spot in the points table with six points.
Rohit Sharma's batting prowess was on full display, as he casually executed a variety of strokes, including a pull shot and a square-driven six. Shreyas Iyer played an unbeaten knock of 54 runs while KL Rahul stayed unbeaten on 19 runs. Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill contributed identical 16 runs before losing their wickets.
Recommended For You
The bowling unit's disciplined and varied approach left Pakistan struggling, resulting in their second-lowest ODI World Cup score against India since 1999. Bumrah and Siraj, with their clever use of the semi-old ball, outfoxed the Pakistan batters, while Kuldeep played a crucial role in dismantling their middle order.
Despite a notable 82-run partnership between Pakistan's captain Babar Azam and Mohammed Rizwan, India maintained control. Captain Rohit Sharma's decision to bowl first after winning the toss raised some eyebrows, but it proved strategic as India stayed in control throughout the match.
The atmosphere at the Narendra Modi Stadium was electrifying, with over a lakh spectators contributing to an imposing and intimidating vibe. The entire stadium singing the national anthem added to the charged ambiance.
India will next take on Bangladesh In Pune on Thursday, October 19 while Pakistan will take on Australia in Bengaluru on Friday, October 20.