Asia Cup 2023: Nepal captain shuts Pakistan crowd with brilliant run out of Imam-ul-Haq

Pakistan and Nepal are currently locking horns against each other in the opening match of the Asia Cup 2023. Pakistan skipper Babar Azam won the toss and elected to bat at the Multan Cricket Stadium. Batting first, Pakistan lost two early wickets but Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan forged a crucial partnership to rescue the team from a collapse. Rizwan was run out by Dipendra Singh Airee in the 25th over. This was not the first run out of the match as Imam-ul-Haq earlier became a victim of a great throw from Nepal skipper Rohit Paudel. 

3 things you need to know

• This is the first time Pakistan are playing Nepal in an ODI match
• Nepal captain Rohit Paudel's direct hir dismissed Imam-ul-Haq
• Despite the early loss, Pakistan were able to post 342/6 in 50 overs

Also Read: Asia Cup 2023: Rohit Sharma And Co. Reach Sri Lanka To Take On Pakistan In First Game

Rohit Paudel executes a brilliant run out to dismiss Imam-ul-Haq

Rohit Paudel, the captain of Nepal, illuminated the 2023 Asia Cup with his exceptional fielding prowess during the tournament's inaugural match against Pakistan. Leading Nepal in their Asia Cup debut, Paudel showcased remarkable composure as he executed a sensational run-out, dismissing Pakistan's opener Imam-ul-Haq with a precise direct hit.

Paudel's direct hit dislodged the bails at the non-striker's end, leaving Imam considerably short of the crease. Imam's quick single attempt after nudging the ball towards mid-off was thwarted by Paudel's pinpoint accuracy. Despite a desperate dive, Imam was nearly out of frame, departing with just 5 runs on the board and Pakistan facing a challenging 25 for 2.

Nepal's powerplay dominance was further demonstrated as they swiftly removed both Pakistani openers. Fakhar Zaman's edge was skillfully caught behind the stumps by Asif Sheikh in the 6th over.

Pakistan, a formidable force as the top-ranked ODI team and two-time Asia Cup champions, encountered Nepal for the first time in this format. Nepal, making their maiden appearance in the Asia Cup following their triumph in the ACC Men's Premier Cup earlier in the year, approached the match with palpable enthusiasm.

Also Read: Sri Lanka, Bangladesh Aim To Rise Amid Injury Concern, Modest Form For Winning Start In Asia Cup

The top two teams from Groups A and B will advance to the Super Fours, where they will engage in three additional matches at Colombo's R Premadasa Stadium. This venue is also slated to host the final on September 17, culminating in a showdown between the tournament's finest teams.

Image: Hotstar