PAK vs SL: Aakash Chopra Criticises Pakistan's Performance Against Netherlands, Describing It As 'Lackluster'

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra wasn’t impressed with Pakistan’s performance against the Netherlands in the ICC World Cup 2023. Aakash Chopra described Pakistan’s performance as lackluster despite convincingly winning their tournament opener.

Pakistan got off to a poor start after being asked to bat first in Hyderabad on Friday, October 6. They lost their three top-order batters for just 38 runs. However, they managed to reach a total of 282 runs, thanks to Mohammad Rizwan (68) and Saud Shakeel (68).

No One Expected The Team To Get All Out – Aakash Chopra

Reflecting on Pakistan’s 81-run victory over the Netherlands, Aakash Chopra pointed out that Pakistan’s batters struggled initially and took a lot of effort to reach a competitive total.

“They won, but what kind of win was that? They scraped through even though the margin of victory was a big one. No one expected the team to get all out on a flat pitch against Netherlands – no disrespect. They stumbled to 38/3 and huffed and puffed their way to 286 in 49 overs. It was a lackluster performance by Pakistan.”

Following the loss of three early wickets, Rizwan and Shakeel forged a crucial 120-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Mohammad Nawaz (39) and Shadab Khan (32) also provided valuable contributions lower down the order.

Bas de Leede Should Have Been The Man Of The Match – Aakash Chopra

Aakash Chopra suggested that Bas de Leede’s performance deserved the Man of the Match award and predicted that he might secure an IPL contract.

Bas de Leede claimed four wickets for 62 runs in nine overs. He managed to score 67 runs off 68 balls, including six fours and two sixes. However, their team was bowled out for 205 runs while chasing the target of 287 runs.