India continued their unbeaten run in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 with a convincing seven-wicket victory over Bangladesh at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune on Thursday. Virat Kohli scored a brilliant century and was named the player of the match for his match-winning knock.
Bangladesh bat first and post 256/8
Bangladesh won the toss and opted to bat first, hoping to put up a big total on a flat pitch. However, they lost wickets at regular intervals and could not build any substantial partnerships. Mohammad Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah bowled with pace and accuracy, while Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja spun a web around the batsmen. Shakib Al Hasan, who missed the previous match due to injury, top-scored for Bangladesh with 80 runs off 85 balls. He also took one wicket and conceded 43 runs in his 10 overs. Mushfiqur Rahim (46) and Mahmudullah (40) also chipped in with some useful contributions, but Bangladesh could only manage 256/8 in their 50 overs.
India chased down the target with ease
India’s chase was never in doubt as they got off to a flying start with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill adding 72 runs for the first wicket in 11.3 overs. Rohit fell for 32, but Gill continued his impressive form and made 51 off 54 balls. Kohli then took charge of the innings and played a masterclass of an ODI knock. He hit 12 fours and two sixes in his unbeaten 103 off 97 balls, his 44th ODI hundred, and his sixth in World Cups. He shared an unbroken 114-run stand with KL Rahul, who scored 47 not out off 46 balls. India reached their target in 41.3 overs, with seven wickets and 51 balls to spare.
India remain on top of the table
With this win, India consolidated their position at the top of the table with eight points from four matches. They have also extended their winning streak to nine matches in World Cups, dating back to the 2019 edition. Bangladesh, on the other hand, has slipped to the seventh spot with two points from four matches. They will need to win their remaining five matches to have any chance of making it to the semi-finals.
What’s next?
India will face Sri Lanka in their next match on Sunday, October 22 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Bangladesh will take on Afghanistan on Monday, October 23 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.