India reach 266 after Shaheen's four-for in Asia Cup

KANDY, Sri Lanka, Sept 2, 2023 (AFP): Pakistan's Shaheen Shah Afridi took four wickets to lead an inspired pace attack and bowl out India for 266 in Saturday's blockbuster Asia Cup clash.

India slipped to 66-4 before Ishan Kishan (82) and Hardik Pandya (87) hit back in a stand of 138 to hand their team a fighting total in their opening match of the 50-over tournament, a prelude to next month's ODI World Cup in India.

Shaheen made 4-35 and got able support from fellow quicks Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah, both of whom picked up three wickets each. The left-handed Kishan counter-attacked with boundaries to take the fight back to the opposition bowlers with Pandya.

Number 10 Jasprit Bumrah made 16 before falling to Naseem as the Indian innings ended in 48.5 overs.

Ground staff covered the field as players left for the innings break after the return of a drizzle.

Pakistan’s batting was yet to start at the time of going to press at 10:00pm.