Faheem Ashraf played a dramatic match-winning cameo as Pakistan avoided a major upset, edging past the Netherlands by three wickets in the T20 World Cup opener in Colombo.
Chasing 148, Pakistan stumbled late, losing key wickets and needing 29 off the final two overs. Faheem turned the game with a blistering 29 not out off 11 balls, smashing three sixes in a decisive 19th over. Earlier, Sahibzada Farhan scored 47, while the Dutch were restricted to 147 despite Scott Edwards’ 37.
The tense win was crucial for Pakistan, who have already forfeited points against India in Group A.
Brief Summary
NED – 147 (19.5)
PAK – 148/7 (19.3)
Player of the Match – Faheem Ashraf