Twitter reacts as Iftikhar Ahmed dazzles Asia Cup opening evening with his blistering century

Iftikhar Ahmed added 214 runs in 134 balls with captain Babar Azam for the 5th Wicket.

Pakistan’s middle-order batter Iftikhar Ahmed has played a magnificent game-changing innings against Nepal in Asia Cup opener at Multan Cricket Stadium in Multan. Iftikhar scored his maiden ODI century and helped Pakistan reach the 342 mark. Pakistan scored 342 runs in their 50 overs and gave Nepal 343 runs to chase. Along with Iftikhar Ahmed, captain Babar Azam also played a magnificent knock and scored 151 runs. Pakistan were a little under pressure after losing 4 wickets in 124 runs, but from there, these two batters took charge and added a dominating stand for the 5th wicket.

Iftikhar took Pakistan out of danger

Pakistan looked in trouble when Salman Agha departed early. Iftikhar came in to bat next and played a blistering knock against inexperienced Nepal bowlers. He took 67 balls to complete his maiden ODI century and added 214 runs in 134 balls along with skipper Babar Azam for the fifth wicket. Iftikhar smashed four sixes and 11 fours in his innings. His counter-attacking approach also helped captain Babar Azam play freely in his innings. Babar also broke a record with his 151-runs knock. He became the fastest to complete 19 ODI centuries in the world.

Social media reacts to Iftikhar Ahmed century

Iftikhar’s sensational knock also set social media on fire and earned huge praise from users for his fearless approach. Pakistani fans were thrilled to watch Iftikhar’s knock. Iftikhar completed his maiden ODI century with a sky-high six. His partnership helped Pakistan look beyond the par score. After the 4th wicket fell, Pakistan’s dressing room looked a bit tense, and one more wicket could have changed the momentum in the innings. As soon as Iftikhar arrived, he looked for opportunities to score runs.

Maiden ODI hundred for Iftikhar Ahmed.Iftikhar brings up his century off just 67 balls with 10 fours and 4 sixes. pic.twitter.com/6Klr7GzLGC

— Nawaz 🇵🇰 (@Rnawaz31888) August 30, 2023

Nepal need 343 runs to win their opening game in Asia Cup. It looks tough, as Pakistan have a sensational pace attack in their setup. Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf will be looking to use this opportunity to get their rhythm for the next big encounter against India on September 2 at Pallekele Cricket Stadium in Kandy. Sompal Kami (2 wickets), Karan KC (1 wicket), and Sandeep Lamichhane (1 wicket) picked up wickets for Nepal.

For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.