Afghanistan's batter Rahmat Shah came in at no.3 and scored an unbeaten 77 off 84 balls to carry his team to a historic win over Pakistan during the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 match at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
Image: PTI
Hello and welcome to our live blog!
A wounded Pakistan will be looking to bounce back today as they take on Afghanistan. Babar Azam's men have been handed heavy defeats against Australia and India in their last two games and will be keen to avoid making it three on the trot.
Afghanistan meanwhile followed up their spirited win against England with a tepid display against New Zealand, losing by 149 runs. Stay tuned to find out what form they carry with them to the Chepauk stadium today.
Toss: Pakistan win toss, opt to bat
One change for Pakistan as Shadab comes in to replace Nawaz who has taken ill
We will bat first. The pitch looks very dry and might spin. We have one change, Nawaz has fever and Shadab is back. We will have to give our 100% in every match and step-up, that's what I want from my players. The pitch might help the pacers under lights.Babar Azam (Pakistan Captain)
Shahidi wants to restrict Pakistan to '250 or less', can they pull that off?
We wanted to bat first, but the toss is not in your hand. One change for us - Noor Ahmad is in for Fazalhaq Farooqi. We played a series against them in Sri Lanka and we wanted more spinning options. We want to restrict them to 250 or less.Hashmatullah Shahidi (Afghanistan Captain)
Pakistan vs Afghanistan Playing XI
Pakistan (Playing XI): Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali and Haris Rauf.
Afghanistan (Playing XI): Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Azmatullah Omarzai, Ikram Alikhil (wk), Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen-ul-Haq and Noor Ahmad.
Pitch Report from the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
Pommie Mbangwa and Aaron Finch in their Pitch Report from the Chepauk Stadium point out that there's a bit of a breeze coming through the stands today.
Dimensions: 75m straight boundaries while the square sides are at 65 and 66m respectively.
The Surface: Not a lot of pace in this pitch and you can't hit through the line. Not a blade of grass and expect this pitch to spin. This could be the slowest pitch in this ground today.
News from our 'India Corner'
Yesterday, Mohammed Shami became the first Indian to grab two World Cup five-wicket hauls so what's his big 'secret'?
Preparing pitches in village, bowling under lights and cross-country runs - Read the full story here:
The Indian captain Rohit Sharma said Shami grabbed the opportunity with both hands - Here's what he said at the post-match press conference
Meanwhile, centurion Daryl Mitchell was all praise for Virat Kohli who "got India over the line" - Read the full story here.
Also, the 'Poor' Dharamsala outfield was back in focus last night as Indian players avoided diving on it - Read the full report here.
Follow all our ICC World Cup 2023 coverage in one place!
The 'Men in Blue' sit pretty at the top as the only team yet to taste defeat at CWC 2023
Time for the national anthems!
Both sides are onto the field for the national anthems. Afghanistan first followed by Pakistan.
All set for the start!
Imam-Ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique walk out to open the innings for Pakistan. They'll be looking for a fast start.
Naveen-Ul-HaQ has the new ball as he fills in for Farooqi.
Over 1: Pakistan 5/0
0.6 - FOUR! Full onto the pads from Naveen and Imam gets off the mark with a wristy flick through square leg.
0.5 - No run, full outside off and Imam looks to drive but only connects with the toe-end of the bat.
0.4 - No run, short outside off and Imam chops it to point.
0.3 - 1 run, streaky from Shafique who slices it uppishly, just beyond the reach of backward point.
0.2 - No run, full into the stumps now and Shafique defends.
0.1 - No run, some swing from Naveen as he bowls it full outside off and Shafique leaves.
Over 2: Pakistan 8/0
1.6 - 1 run, Shafique punches it down the field and a misfield by Mujeeb lets them grab a single.
1.5 - No run, flatter this time and Shafique pushes back to Mujeeb.
1.4 - No run, slower from Mujeeb and Shafique defends.
1.3 - No run, Shafique leans forward and defends.
1.2 - 1 run, tossed up from round the wicket to Imam who flicks to long-on.
1.1 - 1 run, tossed up to Shafique who tucks it to square leg.
Spin from the other end as Mujeeb Ur Rahman, right-arm off break, comes into the attack.
Over 3: Pakistan 13/0
2.6 - No run, back of length outside off and Shafique dabs to point.
2.5 - No run, full onto the stumps now and Shafique defends.
2.4 - FOUR! Excellent shot from Shafique. He reaches out and lofts the full and wide delivery over the top of cover. It flies flat to the boundary and bounces just inside the line.
2.3 - No run, chance! Shafique looks to flick and gets a big leading edge as the ball loops and lands just short of mid-off.
2.2 - No run, back of length outside off and Shafique pushes to point.
2.2 - Wide! Sprayed down leg.
2.1 - No run, full outside off from Naveen and Shafique defends.
Both sides at the national anthems!
Afghanistan players line up before the match
Pakistan players line up before the match at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.
Over 4: Pakistan 15/0
3.6 - No run, Imam pushes down the ground but this time Mujeeb races across the pitch and cuts off any runs with some sharp fielding.
3.5 - No run, Imam just flicks to midwicket.
3.4 - No run, tossed up to Imam who pushes back to Mujeeb.
3.3 - 1 run, tossed up to Shafique who flicks to square leg.
3.2 - No run, slower to Shafique who defends.
3.1 - 1 run, tossed up to Imam who punches to long-on.
Over 5: Pakistan 26/0
4.6 - No run, banged short to Imam who decides to leave for the keeper.
4.5 - No run, full outside off and Imam flicks to mid-on.
4.4 - 1 run, Shafique now tucks to square leg and rotates strike.
4.3 - SIX! Naveen bangs it short and Shafique absolutely nails the pull as he sends it flying into the stands over deep midwicket.
4.2 - FOUR! Slower onto the pads and Shafique shows great technique as he flicks it delicately through the gap at midwicket.
4.1 - No run, back of length into the batter from Naveen and Shafique defends.
Shafique has been impressing with his performances so far on the biggest stage!
Over 6: Pakistan 38/0
5.6 - FOUR! Shafique now gets down to sweep it past short fine leg to make it two boundaries from the over.
5.5 - No run, tossed up to Shafique who defends.
5.4 - 1 run, tossed up onto the pads and Imam flicks to deep square leg.
5.3 - 2 run, Imam looks to pull but mistimes it to long-on. The fielder hits the stumps with the throw as they pick up an extra from the overthrow.
5.2 - FOUR! Tad short and Imam plays a superb late cut to send it racing past backward point.
5.1 - 1 run, tossed up by Mujeeb and Shafique tucks to square leg.
Over 7: Pakistan 39/0
Good over for Afghanistan as just the 1 run comes off it.
6.6 - No run, tossed up and Shafique pushes back to Nabi.
6.5 - No run, quicker full delivery and Shafique pushes to mid-on.
6.4 - No run, short this time from Nabi and Shafique defends off the back foot.
6.3 - No run, flighted to Shafique who leans forward to defend.
6.2 - 1 run, Imam flicks to backward square leg.
6.1 - No run, tossed up by Nabi and Imam blocks.
Spin from both ends now as Mohammad Nabi, right-arm off break, comes into the attack.
Over 8: Pakistan 51/8
7.6 - No run, tossed up to Imam who puts in a solid block.
7.5 - 1 run, Shafique flicks to the on-side and rotates strike.
7.4 -FOUR! Excellent from Shafique as he gets on one knee and drives the tossed up full delivery through covers.
7.3 - SIX! Now Shafique skips down the track and uses the inside-out loft to send the flatter delivery flying into the stands over long-off.
7.2 - No run, quicker to Shafique too who defends.
7.1 - 1 run, flatter from Mujeeb and Imam flicks to deep square leg.
ICYMI, that was a 'drought ending' six by Shafique in the 5th over!
Over 9: Pakistan 54/0
8.6 - No run, banged short to Imam who is happy to duck under it. Looks like it'll only be Shafique taking on the short ones in the powerplay.
8.5 - 1 run, slower onto the pads and Shafique flicks to midwicket.
8.4 - No run, Shafique blocks it out to cover.
8.3 - 1 run, length delivery outside off and Imam dabs to third man.
8.2 - 1 run, full onto the pads and Shafique flicks to deep midwicket.
8.1 - No run, full outside off from Azmat and Shafique defends to cover.
Back to pace as Azmatullah Omarzai, right-arm fast medium, comes into the attack.
Over 10: Pakistan 56/0
9.6 - No run, full and Shafique flicks it down the ground but it's well cut off by Nabi.
9.5 - No run, Shafique punches the shorter delivery back to Nabi.
9.4 - 1 run, Imam leans forward to flick to midwicket.
9.3 - No run, tossed up onto the pads and Imam pushes it back to Nabi.
9.2 - 1 run, Shafique gets on the back foot and punches to long-on.
9.1 - No run, tossed up to Shafique who defends.
Change of ends for Mohammad Nabi [1.0-0-1-0] who comes back into the attack.
Over 11: Paksitan 63/1
10.6 - No run, back of length into the batter and Shafique defends.
10.5 - 1 run, again short outside off and Babar guides to deep third man.
10.4 - 1 run, short outside off and Shafique dabs to third man.
10.3 - 1 run, another drive on the up but it's straight to the fielder who fires in a needless throw as they grab a run from the overthrow.
10.2 - FOUR! There are chants of "Babar, Babar" as Azmat comes steaming in and Babar responds with a dominant cover drive on the up to get off the mark.
The Pakistan captain Babar Azam walks out to loud cheers from the crowd.
10.1 - WICKET! Imam c Naveen-ul-Haq b Azmatullah 17 (22)
This time Imam takes on the short delivery but fires it straight towards the man at midwicket who makes no mistake. Finally Afghanistan have the breakthrough and it comes in the first delivery after the powerplay.
Some lovely scenes at the Chepauk, courtesy Shaheen Shah Afridi
Chennai: Pakistan's Shaheen Afridi with a child before the start of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 match between Pakistan and Afghanistan, at M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, in Chennai.
Image: PTI
Over 12: Pakistan 64/1
11.6 - No run, quicker from Nabi and Shafique blocks.
11.5 - No run, loopy again and Shafique flicks to midwicket.
11.4 - No run, tossed up to Shafique who flicks to mid-on.
11.3 - 1 run, Babar skips down the track and flicks to long-on.
11.2 - No run, once again Nabi flights it to Babar who blocks.
11.1 - No run, tossed up to Babar who defends.
Over 13: Pakistan 72/1
12.6 - No run, back of length outside off and Babar punches to cover.
12.5 - FOUR! Rising short delivery and Babar pulls it superbly over midwicket to find the ropes.
12.4 - No run, back of length delivery that takes off as Babar swipes but is beaten.
12.3 - 2 runs, short outside off and Babar punches through the gap at cover.
12.2 - 2 runs, short to Babar who pulls to deep midwicket where Rashid Khan comes racing across to cut off the boundary.
12.1 - No run, short outside off and Babar dabs straight to backward point.
The praises for Pakistan's 23-year-old opener continue to flow!
Over 14: Pakistan 75/1
13.6 - No run, short down leg and Babar flicks straight to square leg.
13.5 - No run, shorter this time and Babar defends back to Nabi.
13.4 - No run, tossed up to Babar who defends.
13.3 - 1 run, shorter to Shafique who skips out to punch to long-on.
13.2 - 1 run, Nabi floats it to Babar who flicks to long-on.
13.1 - 1 run, length delivery to Shafique who tucks to midwicket.
Over 15: Pakistan 78/1
14.6 - No run, Babar leans forward and defends cleanly this time.
14.5 - No run, appeals for LBW as Babar leans forward to block but edges onto the pads.
14.4 - No run, this time Babar gets on the back foot and defends.
14.3 - 1 run, Shafique leans forward and drives past mid-off.
14.2 - 1 run, Rashid lands it short to Babar who pulls but mistimes the shot as it lands short of the man at deep midwicket.
14.1 - 1 run, tossed up to Shafique who flicks to long-on.
Time for some excitement now as the wily Rashid Khan, right-arm leg break, comes into the attack.
Over 16: Pakistan 82/1
15.6 - No run, Shafique advances but Nabi shortens his length forcing the batter to defend.
15.5 - 1 run, short to Babar who punches to long-on.
15.4 - 1 run, Shafique gets on the back foot and punches to long-on.
15.3 - 1 run, Babar leans forward and flicks to midwicket.
15.2 - 1 run, tossed up to Shafique who flicks to long-on.
15.1 - No run, Nabi lands it short to Shafique who defends.
Okay, there's something happening in the middle now as Nabi pulls out of his stride but Babar has his bat planted in the crease. Some exchange of words but it's short-lived.
Over 17: Pakistan 85/1
16.6 - No run, this time Shafique gets bat behind ball to defend as the Umpires call for drinks.
16.5 - No run, beaten! Rashid fires in the googly that beats the edge and only just misses the edge.
16.4 - 1 run, Babar plays it late as he punches to sweeper cover.
16.3 - No run, beaten! Sharp turn from Rashid as Babar looks to defend but sees it bounce past his edge.
16.2 - 1 run, Shafique leans forward and drives to long-off.
16.1 - 1 run, tossed up by Rashid and Babar drives to long-on.
Over 18: Pakistan 90/1
17.6 - 1 run, too full again to Babar who flicks to long-on.
17.5 - 1 run, full down leg and Shafique flicks through square leg.
17.4 - 1 run, Babar tucks the length delivery to midwicket.
17.3 - 1 run, full outside off and Shafique reaches out to slices through cover.
17.2 - 1 run, Babar cuts the shorter delivery to cover.
17.1 - No run, full delivery from Noor and Babar defends.
Time for the young 18-year-old Noor Ahmad, left-arm chinaman, who is making his World Cup debut.
Over 19: Pakistan 93/1 - FIFTY up for Shafique! 50* (60)
18.6 - No run, onto the pads and Shafique flicks to midwicket.
18.5 - No run, Shafique leans forward and defends.
18.4 - 2 runs, FIFTY up for Shafique! 50* (60)
Shafique tucks to fine leg to bring up his half-century! The Pakistan opener has settled in nicely into the squad since his introduction against Sri Lanka.
18.3 - No run, quicker outside off and Shafique looks to defend but is beaten!
18.2 - No run, fired in quick to Shafique who defends.
18.1 - 1 run, flat from Rashid and Babar cuts to deep cover.
Over 20: Pakistan 100/1
19.6 - 1 run, Shafique tucks to square leg to bring up the 100 for Pakistan.
19.5 - No run, wide outside off and Shafique slices to point.
19.5 - Wide! Noor sprays it down leg.
19.4 - 1 run, short outside off and Babar cuts it past point.
19.3 - No run, full and quick now from Noor and Babar defends.
19.2 - No run, tossed up by Noor and Babar almost loses balance as he defends.
19.1 - FOUR! Width offered by Noor and Babar slices it through the gap at cover.
Over 21: Pakistan 103/1
20.6 - No run, pitched outside off and Babar leaves it alone.
20.5 - 1 run, Shafique gets on the back foot and punches to long-on.
20.4 - 1 run, Babar punches the flat delivery to cover.
20.3 - 1 run, Shafique brings out the sweep to rotate strike.
20.2 - No run, full now and Shafique drills it straight back to Rashid.
20.1 - No run, quicker from Rashid and Shafique defends.
Good support for Pakistan inside the Chepauk today and the Men in Green have responded nicely so far!
Over 22: Pakistan 109/1
21.6 - No run, Shafique flicks it to midwicket where it's superbly cut off. Sharp fielding from Afghanistan to make Pakistan work hard for their runs.
21.5 - No run, tossed up to Shafique who defends.
21.4 - 1 run, Babar leans forward and drives to cover.
21.3 - 1 run, Shafique gets on the back foot and punches to long-on.
21.2 - No run, this time Shafique defends to the leg-side.
21.1 - FOUR! Streaky from Shafique as he gets a thick edge that just flies past slip to find the ropes. Lucky way to bring up the 50-run partnership.
Mujeeb Ur Rahman [4.0-0-29-0] comes back to replace Noor.
Over 23: Pakistan 110/2
22.6 - No run, beaten! Beautiful bowling from the youngster as Rizwan looks to defend but it just misses the edge.
22.5 - No run, Rizwan swings at the full delivery but it spins away sharply to beat the bat. Noor is getting some good turn at the moment.
22.4 - No run, Rizwan plays the wrong line as the ball spins away to the keeper.
Pakistan's in-form batter Mohammad Rizwan, right handed bat, comes to the crease.
22.3 - WICKET! Shafique lbw b Noor Ahmad 58 (75)
The 18-year-old Noor Ahmad strikes on his World Cup debut! What an excellent review from Afghanistan as Shafique looks to sweep but is beaten. There's no bat involved and three reds mean Shafique's promising start is cut short by the young Noor.
22.2 - No run, pitched short outside off and Shafique reaches out a long way to slap it to cover.
22.1 - 1 run, tossed up by Noor and Babar flicks to long-on.
Change of ends for the youngster as Noor Ahmad [2.0-0-12-0] comes back into the attack.
Over 24: Pakistan 118/2
23.6 - 1 run, Rizwan tucks to midwicket and this time runs to retain strike.
23.5 - SIX! This time Rizwan gets low and connects with the slog sweep to get off the mark in dominant fashion.
23.4 - No run, angled into Rizwan who tucks to midwicket but doesn't risk taking the single.
23.3 - No run, quicker outside off and Rizwan cuts to cover.
23.2 - No run, full to Rizwan who defends.
23.1 - 1 run, tossed up by Mujeeb and Babar drives to long-off.
Over 25: Pakistan 120/3
24.6 - No run, beaten! Excellent from Noor as he beats the inside edge again to hit Shakeel on the thigh pads. Again the umpire ignores the appeals with the impact well outside off.
24.5 - No run, review for LBW!
Shakeel is beaten all ends up as he leans forward to defend but gets hit on the back thigh pad. Noor is excited but the impact is 'outside off' and Afghanistan lose one review! Excellent bowling though.
Saud Shakeel, left handed bat, comes to the crease.
24.4 - WICKET! Rizwan c Mujeeb b Noor Ahmad 8 (10)
Noor tosses it up slower outside off and Rizwan goes for the slog sweep but only connects with the top-edge as the ball loops towards short fine leg for an easy catch.
Big wicket for Afghanistan and once again it's the 18-year-old Noor who delivers! What a WC debut he's having!
24.3 - 1 run, Noor pitches it full down leg and Babar flicks to midwicket.
24.2 - No run, tossed up to Babar who defends.
24.1 - 1 run, Rizwan brings up the sweep to rotate strike.
Over 26: Pakistan 124/3
25.6 - 1 run, Shakeel punches past point to retain strike.
25.5 - No run, quicker this time as it draws a thick inside edge to square leg.
25.4 - No run, googly from Rashid and Shakeel cuts to point.
25.3 - 2 runs, low full toss now and Shakeel drives to long-off.
25.2 - No run, fuller from Rashid and Shakeel pushes to cover.
25.1 - 1 run, Babar is key out in the middle now as he flicks to midwicket.
Rashid Khan [4.0-0-12-0] is back into the attack as Afghanistan look to build on this pressure.
Over 27: Pakistan 126/3
26.6 - 1 run, onto the pads and Babar flicks to retain strike.
26.5 - No run, appeals for LBW as Babar gets beaten past the inside edge but it's too high.
26.4 - 1 run, googly this time and Shakeel clips to square leg.
26.3 - No run, short outside off and Shakeel punches back to Noor.
26.2 - No run, quick outside off and Shakeel shoulders arms.
26.1 - No run, beaten! Tossed up by Noor and Shakeel looks to flick but gets hit on the thigh pad.
Over 28: Pakistan 128/3
27.6 - No run, Babar steps out to flick but again doesn't connect cleanly.
27.5 - No run, Babar looks to flick but doesn't connect cleanly.
27.4 - No run, onto the stumps and Babar pushes back to Nabi.
27.3 - No run, tossed up outside off and Babar defends.
27.2 - 1 run, flat to Shakeel who flicks to square leg.
27.1 - 1 run, short from Nabi and Babar punches to long-on.
Mohammad Nabi [5.0-0-11-0] comes back into the attack.
Over 29: Pakistan 137/3
28.6 - 1 run, onto the pads and Shakeel flicks to deep square leg.
28.6 - 3 Wides! Fired down leg and Shakeel looks to pull but misses as they run two.
28.5 - No run, tossed up to Shakeel who finds the man at midwicket.
28.4 - 1 run, onto the pads of Babar who clips to midwicket.
28.3 - 1 run, length delivery from Noor and Shakeel punches to long-on.
28.2 - 1 run, short outside off and Babar slaps it to long-off.
28.2 - Wide! Fired quick down leg.
28.1 - 1 run, tossed up by Noor and Shakeel reaches out to sweep to long leg.
Over 30: Pakistan 139/3
29.6 - No run, slower from Nabi as Shakeel defends.
29.5 - 1 run, Babar gets on the back foot to punch to long-on.
29.4 - 1 run, tossed up outside off and Shakeel drives to long-off.
29.3 - No run, Shakeel gets on the front foot to defend.
29.2 - No run, slower from Nabi and Shakeel clips to midwicket.
29.1 - No run, tossed up to Shakeel who defends with soft hands.
Over 31: Pakistan 145/3
30.6 - 1 run, Shakeel flicks to square leg to retain strike.
30.5 - 1 run, Babar slogs on the free-hit but it only goes high over midwicket and the fielder takes the catch.
30.5 - Wide! Sprayed well down leg. Scratch that, Noor has overstepped which means it's a no-ball and a free-hit is coming up.
30.4 - No run, Babar gets a thick edge to square leg.
30.3 - 1 run, short outside off and Shakeel punches past point.
30.3 - Wide! Fired down leg as Shakeel misses with the pull.
30.2 - No run, Shakeel leans forward and defends.
30.1 - 1 run, quicker from Noor and Babar punches to point.
Over 32: Pakistan 151/3
31.6 - No run, flatter onto the stumps and Shakeel blocks.
31.5 - No run, Nabi pitches it full to Shakeel who defends.
31.4 - 1 run, Babar punches the shorter delivery through point.
31.3 - No run, quicker onto the pads and Babar defends.
31.2 - 1 run, Shakeel dabs to cover to bring up 150 for Pakistan.
31.1 - FOUR! Short from Nabi and Shakeel rocks onto the back foot to pull through midwicket. That's the first boundary that Nabi concedes and it comes in his eight over.
Over 33: Pakistan 158/3
32.6 - 1 run, Babar punches to deep cover to retain strike.
32.5 - 1 run, Shakeel dabs it to the off-side for a quick single.
32.4 - FOUR! Shakeel slices it through point where a misfield sees it escape to the ropes.
32.3 - 1 run, misfield at cover allows Babar to get off strike as they pick up a single.
32.2 - No run, quicker onto the stumps and Babar defends.
32.1 - No run, onto the pads and Babar tucks to the on-side.
Rashid Khan [5.0-0-16-0] comes back into the attack to replace Noor.
Over 34: Pakistan 163/4
33.6 - WICKET! Saud Shakeel c Rashid Khan b Nabi 25 (34)
Nabi gets the breakthrough! Shakeel advances and looks to flick but gets a thick leading edge as the ball flies high over midwicket and Rashid keeps his eyes on the ball to take a safe catch.
That's a huge wicket for Afghanistan as the umpires call for drinks.
33.5 - No run, Shakeel gets on the back foot to defend.
33.4 - FOUR! Smart from Shakeel as he brings out the reverse-sweep to guide it past short third man.
33.3 - No run, beaten! Shakeel advances and looks to defend but gets hit on the pads.
33.2 - 1 run, fuller from Nabi and Babar flicks to long-on.
33.1 - No run, Babar skips out but can only flick to midwicket.
Over 35: Pakistan 167/4
34.6 - 1 run, Shadab reaches out to drives to long-off to retain strike.
34.5 - No run, Shadab blocks out the googly.
34.4 - 1 run, Babar skips out and flicks to long-on to move to 49*.
34.3 - No run, almost! Babar almost chops the googly back onto the stumps as it bounces back to the keeper.
34.2 - 1 run, Shadab dabs the short delivery to backward point to get off the mark.
34.1 - 1 run, tossed up by Rashid and Babar drives to long-on.
Shadab Khan, right handed bat, comes to the crease
Over 36: Pakistan 172/4 - FIFTY up for Babar! 50* (69)
35.6 - 3 runs, Shadab drives it past a sliding man at mid-off and Naveen comes running across from long-on to cut off the boundary.
35.5 - No run, short to Shadab who drops it into the pitch.
35.4 - No run, Shadab gets on the back foot to defend.
35.3 - 1 run, FIFTY up for Babar! 50* (69)
Pakistan's hopes lie in their captain now as he punches to long-on to bring up his half-century. They really need him to convert that into a hundred.
35.2 - No run, nerves from Babar as he plays a tentative block.
35.1 - 1 run, Shadab clips the shorter delivery to backward square leg.
Nabi to bowl out now! Babar just one run away from a half-century.
Over 37: Pakistan 177/4
36.6 - 1 run, tossed up to Babar who flicks to long-on.
36.5 - 1 run, gentle punch to cover as they race across for a single.
36.4 - No run, Shadab looks to drive again but gets a thick edge to point.
36.3 - 2 runs, Shadab leans forward to drive past the man at cover.
36.2 - 1 run, short to Babar who slices to deep cover.
36.1 - 1 run, full from Mujeeb and Shadab flicks to long-on.
Mujeeb Ur Rahman [6.0-0-43-0] is back into the attack.
What a World Cup debut this 18 year old is having!
Afghanistan's Noor Ahmad has picked the wickets of half-centurion Abdullah Shafique and Mohammad Rizwan on his World Cup debut at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
Image: PTI
Over 38: Pakistan 183/4
37.6 - 1 run, Babar punches to long-on to retain strike.
37.5 - 1 run, Shadab drives to cover where it's superbly fielded to restrict them to one.
37.4 - 1 run, Babar sweeps but sends it flying high to square leg where it lands short of the fielder.
37.3 - 1 run, Shadab slices the short delivery past point.
37.2 - 1 run, Babar finds the gap past cover to rotate strike.
37.1 - No run, short from Noor and Babar slaps to cover.
Noor Ahmad [7.0-0-32-2] comes back into the attack.
Over 39: Pakistan 189/4
38.6 - No run, flatter onto the stumps and Babar punches to cover.
38.5 - FOUR! Poor half-tracker from Mujeeb and Babar releases some pressure with a pull through midwicket.
38.4 - No run, quicker to Babar who pushes it back to the bowler.
38.3 - 1 run, risky! Shadab looks to pull but only sends it high as it lands safely behind mid-off. The pressure is showing for Pakistan.
38.2 - No run, Shadab gets on the back foot and defends.
38.1 - 1 run, short from Mujeeb and Babar punches to long-on.
Over 40: Pakistan 191/4
39.6 - 1 run, Babar clears his front foot and pulls to long-on this time. Top over from Noor.
39.5 - No run, almost! Noor fires it quicker outside off and Babar pulls hard but only gets a thick inside edge into the pitch and it hits the Keeper in a painful area.
39.4 - No run, excellent fielding again as Babar slices to point and takes off but has to retreat quickly as the fielder cuts it off and sends in a quick throw.
Afghanistan keeping Pakistan on their toes here.
39.3 - No run, top piece of fielding as Babar slaps it hard to cover but it's cut off with a dive.
39.2 - 1 run, full outside off and Shadab drives to point.
39.1 - No run, full from Noor and Shadab flicks to midwicket.
Over 41: Pakistan 196/4
40.6 - 1 run, ALMOST! Babar heaves and sends it flat towards long-on where Noor comes charging in and puts in a slide but it lands just short. Top effort from the youngster as he even manages to keep them down to just one.
40.5 - No run, googly from Rashid as Babar looks to cut but is cramped for room.
40.4 - 1 run, loopy to Shadab who gets an inside edge to short fine leg.
40.3 - 1 run, Babar tucks to midwicket and Rashid chases it down himself.
40.2 - No run, short outside off and Babar punches to cover.
40.1 - 2 runs, short from Rashid and Babar pulls it flat over midwicket.
Rashid Khan [7.0-0-27-0] comes back into the attack as we enter the final ten.
Over 42: Pakistan 206/5
Noor Ahmad signs off with impressive figures of 3/49 on his World Cup debut! What a way for the youngest player in the tournament to announce himself on the biggest stage!
41.6 - No run, Iftikhar defends to the man at backward point.
Iftikhar Ahmed, right handed bat, comes to the crease.
41.5 - WICKET! Babar Azam c Nabi b Noor Ahmad 74 (92)
The 18-year-old Noor adds the priced scalp of Babar Azam to his wicket tally on his World Cup debut! It's a flat half-tracker well outside off and Babar slaps it flat and straight to cover where Nabi takes a sharp catch with both hands extended high.
41.4 - 1 run, Shadab gets on the back foot and punches to long-on.
41.3 - 1 run, Babar rocks back and pulls hard but finds deep midwicket.
41.2 - 2 run, excellent running between the two as Babar gets on the back foot and flicks through midwicket.
41.1 - SIX! Welcomed by the swinging willow of Babar who sends the full delivery flying into the stands over long-on.
Noor into the final over of what has been an impressive spell.
Over 43: Pakistan 209/5
42.6 - No run, again Iftikhar cuts it straight to backward point.
42.5 - No run, Iftikhar looks to dab but can't beat backward point.
42.4 - 1 run, Shadab reads the googly and helps it along to fine leg.
42.3 - No run, low full toss and Shadab is taken by surprise as he mistimes the flick to the off-side.
42.2 - 1 run, Iftikhar pushes to cover and races across to get off the mark.
42.1 - 1 run, googly from Rashid and Shadab flicks uppishly to long-on.
Over 44: Pakistan 215/5
43.6 - 1 run, slower yorker from Naveen and Iftikhar flicks to long-on.
43.5 - No run, beaten! Iftikhar looks to drive but is beaten for pace as it whizzes past the outside edge.
43.4 - 1 run, yorker down leg and Shadab digs it out to deep midwicket.
43.3 - No run, Shadab with a wild heave but only gets a thick inside edge that Naveen himself cuts off on the on-side.
43.2 - No run, full outside off now and Shadab pushes it back to the bowler.
43.1 - FOUR leg byes! Poor start from Naveen as he strays down leg and Shadab misses with the flick as it deflects off the pads to fine leg.
For the first time in a very long time we have some pace as Naveen-ul-Haq [3.0-0-21-0] comes back into the attack.
Over 45: Pakistan 221/5
Rashid finishes wicketless with 0/41.
44.6 - No run, Rashid responds with a quicker full delivery that Iftikhar blocks out.
44.5 - SIX! Mighty heave from Iftikhar this time and he connects cleanly to send it flying high into the stands over deep midwicket. That's the first maximum Rashid has conceded in his spell.
44.4 - No run, Iftikhar slaps it to cover and the fielder is quick onto it to cut off the single.
44.3 - No run, short from Rashid and Iftikhar cuts but it's straight to backward point.
44.2 - No run, loopy onto the stumps and Iftikhar defends back to Rashid.
44.1 - No run, quicker outside off and Iftikhar pushes to cover.
Rashid Khan to bowl out.
Over 46: Pakistan 234/5
45.6 - 1 run, short to Shadab who looks to pull but mistimes the shot as it lands safely at mid-off.
45.6 - Wide! Goes full outside off again but it's past the tramline.
45.5 - 1 run, good comeback from Naveen as he nails the wide yorker that Iftikhar digs out to deep cover.
45.4 - SIX! Short again and this time Iftikhar pulls it back over Naveen's head to send it sailing into the stands.
45.4 - Wide! Banged short but it's too high.
45.3 - 1 run, perfect yorker from Naveen and Shadab drives it past the diving bowler to long-off.
45.2 - 1 run, slower short ball to Iftikhar who pulls but it lands just short of the man at deep midwicket.
45.1 - 1 run, slower cutter from Naveen and Shadab pushes it to cover.
There's some sad news for cricket fans as the legendary Bishan Singh Bedi passes away aged 77
Over 47: Pakistan 250/5
46.6 - No run, good end from Azmat as he sends down a slower short delivery and Shadab pulls but only chops it back to the keeper.
46.5 - 1 run, Iftikhar heaves but mistimes the shot to send it looping towards deep midwicket.
46.4 - FOUR! Iftikhar makes room and slices it past backward point to find the ropes.
46.3 - 1 run, length delivery from Azmat and Shadab drives to deep cover.
46.2 - FOUR! Through the off-side this time as Shadab slices the wide yorker past backward point.
46.1 - SIX! Slower short delivery from Azmat and Shadab nails the pull this time to send it flat over midwicket for a maximum.
Pace from both ends as Azmatullah Omarzai [3.0-0-18-1] is back into the attack.
Over 48: Pakistan 263/5
47.6 - 2 runs, Shadab pulls the short delivery to deep midwicket where a misfield lets them take two.
47.5 - 1 run, full and wide outside off and Iftikhar loses shape as he reaches out to slice towards deep third man.
47.4 - No run, goes back to the tried and tested as Naveen bangs in another slower short ball and Iftikhar tries to pull but cannot get any bat onto it.
47.3 - FOUR! Full and wide outside off but Iftikhar doesn't care as he slashes hard and gets lucky as a thick edge flies past the keeper.
47.2 - SIX! Full outside off now and Iftikhar steps across and hammers it high back over Naveen's head for a maximum.
47.1 - No run, smart bowling from Naveen as he sends down a slower short delivery and Iftikhar doesn't know what to do about it as it bounces to the keeper.
Over 49: Pakistan 279/5
48.6 - 2 runs, hammered towards cover where a misfield lets them take two.
48.5 - 2 runs, low full toss and Shadab mistimes the heave to send it over midwicket.
48.4 - 1 run, slower outside off and Iftikhar dabs it towards backward point where it's well fielded.
48.4 - Wide! Pressure building on Azmat as he pitches it wide outside off.
48.4 - Wide! Banged short again and it's too high. That's the two bouncers of the over wasted .
48.3 - SIX! Full outside off and Iftikhar hammers it high into the stands over long-off.
48.3 - Wide! Banged short but it's too high.
48.2 - 1 run, full outside off and Shadab heaves but only gets an inside edge to fine leg.
48.1 - 1 run, excellent start from Azmat as he nails the yorker and Iftikhar can only dig it out for a single.
Over 50: Pakistan 282/7
What an excellent final over from Naveen as he gives away just 3 runs and gets the wickets of both Iftikhar and Shadab.
49.6 - WICKET! Shadab Khan c Nabi b Naveen-ul-Haq 40 (38)
Excellent from Naveen as he sends down another slower short delivery and Shadab pulls it straight into the experienced hands of Nabi at long-on.
49.5 - 1 run, Shaheen digs out the yorker as they race across to get Shadab on strike for the final delivery.
49.4 - No run, Shaheen misses with the pull as Naveen sends down another clever slower short ball.
49.3 - 2 runs, Shaheen pulls to midwicket and they run hard to take two.
Shaheen Afridi, left handed bat, comes to the crease.
49.2 - WICKET! Iftikhar Ahmed c Azmatullah b Naveen-ul-Haq 40 (27)
Iftikhar stays in place and uses the inside-out lofted drive but it comes off the toe-end as he finds the man at deep extra cover who takes a safe catch. It's been a brilliant knock from Iftikhar to help Pakistan accelerate at the death.
49.1 - No run, smart bowling from Naveen as he spots Iftikhar moving to the off-side and pitches it wider outside off as the yorker slips under the bat.
Afghanistan need 283 runs to win!
It's a really good effort from Afghanistan to restrict Pakistan to 282/7 but it's not an easy track to bat on and they'll have their work cut out against a talented bowling unit.
Abdullah Shafique (58) and Babar Azam (74) played handy knocks but 18-year-old Noor Ahmad grabbed the headlines in the first innings as he got rid of both those batters and sent back the in-form Mohammad Rizwan (8) cheaply to finish with 3/49 on his World Cup debut.
Iftikhar Ahmed (40) and Shadab Khan (40) shared an important 73-run partnership off just 45 balls to push Pakistan to what should be a competitive total.
Afghanistan were sharp with the ball and in the field. They'll now have to emulate that effort with the bat as well to chase down this total.
The man who broke Pakistan's six-hitting drought in the powerplay thinks it's a good total to defend
We have to be confident, it feels nice to be helping the team. We knew that the wicket will turn, they've some world-class spinners, we wanted to settle early and then kick on. Partnerships play a key role and we got a few good partnerships. We were looking for runs, we've got a good total to defend, we will try to bowl and field well.Abdullah Shafique (58 off 75 balls)
All set for the run chase!
Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran walk out to open the batting for Afghanistan.
The man who got a fifer in the last game, Shaheen Shah Afridi has the ball in hand for the first over.
Over 1: Afghanistan 10/0
0.6 - 1 run, Ibrahim flicks the full delivery to square leg to retain strike.
0.5 - FOUR! Both openers get off the mark with boundaries as Shaheen pitches it outside off and sees it driven past cover.
0.4 - No run, onto the pads this time and Ibrahim nudges to the on-side.
0.3 - No run, full onto the stumps and Ibrahim defends.
0.2 - 1 run, full and Gurbaz flicks it past the man at short midwicket.
0.1 - FOUR! Shaheen strays onto the pads and Gurbaz gets off the mark with a gentle flick to fine leg.
Over 2: Afghanistan 18/0
1.6 - No run, Hasan replies with a tighter line as Ibrahim defends.
1.5 - FOUR! Short outside off and Ibrahim slices it past backward point to put the pressure on Hasan Ali.
1.4 - FOUR! Back of length outside off and Ibrahim drives it powerfully through the gap at cover.
1.3 - No run, full onto the stumps again and Ibrahim defends to mid-on.
1.2 - No run, there are two slips in place now as Hasan pitches it onto the stumps and Ibrahim defends.
1.1 - No run, full outside off and Ibrahim shoulders arms.
Hasan Ali, right-arm fast medium, will bowl from the other end.
Over 3: Afghanistan 22/0
2.6 - No run, full outside off and Gurbaz shoulders arms.
2.5 - No run, length delivery to Gurbaz who punches to point.
2.4 - 3 runs, poor from Pakistan in the field. Ibrahim dabs the short ball to third man for a run, but a poor overthrow lets them make that two and another wild throw then sees them grab three.
2.3 - No run, full onto the stumps and Ibrahim defends.
2.2 - No run, full outside off and Ibrahim digs it back to Shaheen.
2.1 - 1 run, back of length down leg and Gurbaz tucks it to square leg for a quick single.
Over 4: Afghanistan 26/0
3.6 - No run, back of length outside off and Ibrahim defends.
3.5 - 1 run, Gurbaz flicks to mid-on for a quick single.
3.4 - No run, streaky from Gurbaz as he gets a thick inside edge that hits him on the back foot.
3.3 - No run, back of length outside off and Gurbaz defends.
3.2 - 3 runs, smart batting from Ibrahim as he flicks it off the hips over the fielder at square leg and they run hard for three.
3.1 - No run, back of length from Hasan and Ibrahim defends to the off-side.
Over 5: Afghanistan 28/0
4.6 - No run, good quiet over from Afridi as Pakistan pull things back.
4.5 - 1 run, short down leg and Ibrahim pulls to deep fine leg.
4.4 - No run, shorter from Afridi and Ibrahim rides the bounce to defend.
4.3 - No run, Afridi angles it across Ibrahim who defends.
4.2 - 1 run, width on offer and Gurbaz dabs it past backward point.
4.1 - No run, full onto the stumps from Afridi and Gurbaz defends.
Over 6: Afghanistan 34/0
5.6 - FOUR! Excellent response from Ibrahim as he drives it with perfect timing through the gap at extra cover.
5.5 - GIVEN OUT & Reviewed! Ibrahim goes for the pull as Hasan bangs it short down leg and Rizwan immediately goes up in appeal and the umpire gives it out 'caught behind'. Ibrahim reviews immediately and Ultraedge confirms there's no edge involved.
5.4 - No run, bit of footy skills now as Ibrahim blocks the slower delivery and then uses his feet to ensure the ball doesn't bounce onto the stumps.
5.3 - No run, short outside off and Ibrahim defends to cover.
5.2 - 2 runs, slower short delivery and Ibrahim dabs to third man where a misfield by Afridi lets them take two.
5.1 - No run, Hasan starts off with a bouncer and Ibrahim lets it pass to the keeper.
Over 7: Afghanistan 38/0
6.6 - No run, Gurbaz cuts firmly but again finds point.
6.5 - No run, back of length outside off and Gurbaz punches to point.
6.4 - FOUR! Short outside off and Gurbaz slices it past backward point. Hasan Ali puts in a good dive coming across from third man but can't cut it off.
6.3 - No run, full outside off and Gurbaz defends to cover.
6.2 - No run, length delivery and Gurbaz thinks of the pull but defends.
6.1 - No run, short outside off and Gurbaz slashes but is beaten. The umpire ignores the muted appeals this time.
Over 8: Afghanistan 55/0
7.6 - FOUR! Unlucky for Rauf as he responds with a pacy back of length delivery that absolutely cuts Gurbaz in half and takes a faint inside edge as it flies past the keeper. That was pure pace from Rauf and he's really unlucky on that occasion.
7.5 - FOUR! Again pitched outside off and Gurbaz punches it past point. He's taking Rauf apart here by making good use of the pace.
7.4 - No run, back of length into the batter and Gurbaz tucks to square leg.
7.3 - FOUR! Punched square this time as Gurbaz sends it racing past point. Rauf was expensive against Australia and has started poorly here.
7.2 - FOUR! A bit of width on offer and Gurbaz expertly guides it past backward point. Good use of the pace on offer there.
7.1 - 1 run, length delivery onto the stumps and Ibrahim defends to the on-side for a quick single.
Time for some raw pace as Haris Rauf, right-arm fast, comes in to replace Hasan Ali.
Over 9: Afghanistan 60/0
8.6 - No run, back of length outside off and Gurbaz defends.
8.5 - 1 run, Ibrahim pulls the short delivery but doesn't time it well as the ball lands short of the man at deep square leg.
8.4 - No run, short outside off and Ibrahim defends.
8.3 - FOUR! What a response from Ibrahim as he drives it through the gap at extra cover.
8.2 - No run, full again and Ibrahim punches to mid-off. This time Babar fires a throw at the striker's end that nearly hits Ibrahim.
8.1 - No run, full outside off and Ibrahim punches to mid-off.
Change of ends for Hasan Ali [3.0-0-18-0] who comes back into the attack.
Over 10: Afghanistan 60/0
9.6 - No run, excellent from Rauf as he bangs it short outside off and Ibrahim looks to cut but is beaten. Maiden over from Rauf as he makes an excellent comeback after getting smacked in his first over.
9.5 - No run, full onto the stumps and Ibrahim cuts it to point. Excellent over so far from Rauf.
9.4 - No run, banged short into the batter again and Ibrahim ducks.
9.3 - No run, back of length outside off and Ibrahim punches straight to cover.
9.2 - No run, banged short into the batter now and Ibrahim ducks for cover. Rauf is breathing fire now after that last over.
9.1 - No run, pacy short delivery outside off from Rauf and Ibrahim defends.
Over 11: Afghanistan 67/0
10.6 - 1 run, Gurbaz defends with soft hands and pushes for a quick single.
10.5 - No run, Gurbaz punches straight to mid-off.
10.4 - 1 run, tossed up by Usama and Ibrahim drives to long-off.
10.3 - FOUR! Excellent this time as Ibrahim backs away and punches through the gap at backward point.
10.2 - No run, beaten! Ibrahim swipes at the shortish delivery but doesn't connect.
10.1 - 1 run, poor fielding from Pakistan and Babar is the culprit this time as he lets it slip past him at gully.
Straight to spin after the powerplay now as Usama Mir, right-arm leg break, comes into the attack.
Over 12: Afghanistan 75/0
11.6 - 1 run, full outside off and Ibrahim drives to deep cover.
11.5 - 1 run, Gurbaz now tucks to square leg for a quick single.
11.4 - FOUR! Almost a catch as Gurbaz pulls the short delivery but it's just beyond the reach of the diving fielder at deep fine leg.
11.3 - 1 run, short into Ibrahim who tucks it to square leg. Rizwan chases it down from behind the wicket to keep them down to one.
11.2 - 1 run, Gurbaz punches it past point to rotate strike.
11.1 - No run, beaten! Full outside off from Rauf as Gurbaz has a tentative poke and is lucky to see it miss the edge.
Over 13: Afghanistan 81/0
12.6 - No run, Ibrahim leans forward and defends.
12.5 - 1 run, tossed up to Gurbaz who drives to long-off.
12.4 - 1 run, Ibrahim punches to long-off to rotate strike.
12.3 - FOUR! Streaky from Ibrahim as he gets a thick edge that's just beyond the reach of Iftikhar at slip as it escapes to third man.
12.2 - No run, Ibrahim gets on the back foot and defends.
12.1 - No run, beaten! Excellent delivery from Usama as he gets it to spin past the edge of Ibrahim who looks to defend.
Over 14: Afghanistan 89/0
13.6 - No run, back of length outside off and Ibrahim drives to cover.
13.6 - Wide! Banged short again but it's too high.
13.5 - No run, short outside off and Ibrahim leaves for the keeper.
13.4 - 1 run, sensible batting from Gurbaz as he drives the full delivery to mid-on for a quick single.
13.3 - FOUR! Excellent from Gurbaz as he pulls the short delivery through the gap at fine leg.
13.2 - 1 run, banged short to Ibrahim who rides the bounce and tucks to square leg.
13.1 - 1 run, full onto the stumps from Rauf and Gurbaz flicks to midwicket.
Over 15: Afghanistan 98/0 - FIFTY up for Ibrahim! 50* (54)
14.6 - 1 run, high full toss to Ibrahim who advances but only pulls to deep midwicket.
14.6 - 1 run, Gurbaz flicks to deep square leg but the siren sounds as Usama oversteps resulting in a no-ball & free-hit.
14.5 - 1 run, FIFTY up for Ibrahim! 50* (54)
Ibrahim brings up his half-century with a good drive to long-off. He's helped give Afghanistan an excellent start in this run chase.
14.4 - No run, tossed up to Ibrahim who drives it straight back to Usama.
14.3 - No run, Ibrahim taps to cover and wants a single but is rightly sent back. Afghanistan don't need to take any risks as they've gotten off to a superb start.
14.2 - FOUR! Superb from Ibrahim as he slices the loopy delivery past point. Shafique comes across from deep cover and gets a hand to it with a dive but can't keep it in.
14.1 - 1 run, loopy full toss from Usama and Gurbaz only drives it to long-on.
Over 16: Afghanistan 105/0 - FIFTY up for Gurbaz! 50* (38)
15.6 - 1 run, Ibrahim finds the gap at cover to retain strike as the umpires call for drinks.
15.5 - No run, short from Shadab and Ibrahim punches straight to cover.
15.4 - 1 run, FIFTY up for Gurbaz! 50* (38)
Gurbaz cuts it to point and it's well cut off but the opener still brings up his half-century. Both these openers have given Afghanistan a blistering start.
15.3 - FOUR! Poor fielding again from Pakistan as Gurbaz pulls the half-tracker towards long-on and Afridi gets there in time but overruns it and is deceived by the bounce. That brings up the 100 for Afghanistan.
15.2 - 1 run, slower loopy delivery from Shadab and Ibrahim drives to cover.
15.1 - No run, tossed up to Ibrahim who defends.
Spin from both ends now as Shadab Khan, right-arm leg break, comes into the attack.
Excellent start for Afghanistan provided by their openers!
Afghanistan's Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz bump fists as both openers bring up fifties in the run chase against Pakistan at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
Image: REUTERS
Over 17: Afghanistan 111/0
16.6 - 2 runs, Gurbaz makes room and cuts it to sweeper cover as they run hard for two.
16.5 - 1 run, this time Ibrahim finds the gap at cover.
16.4 - No run, short outside off and Ibrahim slaps to cover.
16.4 - Wide! Harsh decision as Usama pitches it outside off.
16.3 - No run, shorter to Ibrahim who defends back to Usama.
16.2 - 1 run, fuller this time and Gurbaz flicks to square leg.
16.1 - 1 run, slower from Usama and Ibrahim drives to long-on.
Over 18: Afghanistan 113/0
17.6 - No run, loopy short delivery and Ibrahim defends. Good start from Iftikhar.
17.5 - 1 run, now Gurbaz backs away and punches to long-on.
17.4 - No run, Gurbaz flicks straight to backward square leg.
17.3 - No run, Gurbaz looks to flick but doesn't connect cleanly.
17.2 - No run, slower from Iftikhar and Gurbaz defends.
17.1 - 1 run, Ibrahim pushes through cover to rotate strike.
Another spinner introduced now as Iftikhar Ahmed, right-arm off break, comes into the attack.
Over 19: Afghanistan 120/0
18.6 - No run, tossed up by Shadab and Ibrahim defends.
18.5 - FOUR! Landed short and Ibrahim punches it through cover. Again it's poor fielding as Hasan Ali dives across to try and flick it in but only deflects it onto the ropes.
18.4 - No run, tossed up googly now and Ibrahim punches to cover.
18.3 - No run, flighted down the middle and Ibrahim defends.
18.2 - 1 run, tossed up outside off and Gurbaz slices through cover.
18.1 - 2 runs, loopy full toss and Gurbaz drills it straight past Shadab.
Change of ends for Shadab Khan [1.0-0-7-0] who is back into the attack
Over 20: Afghanistan 128/0
19.6 - No run, loopy from Iftikhar and Gurbaz drills it back to the bowler.
19.5 - 1 run, shorter now from Iftikhar and Ibrahim punches to long-on.
19.4 - No run, quicker outside off and Ibrahim flicks to midwicket.
19.3 - 1 run, Gurbaz backs away and cuts to deep cover.
19.2 - SIX! This time Gurbaz skips down the track and launches it high into the stands over long-off. Clean hitting from the Afghan opener.
19.1 - No run, slower loopy delivery and Gurbaz defends.
Over 21: Afghanistan 130/0
20.6 - No run, almost! Shadab slips in a googly and it takes a thick inside edge that bounces to the on-side.
20.5 - 1 run, again Gurbaz backs away and cuts to deep cover.
20.4 - No run, Gurbaz makes room but punches to cover.
20.3 - 1 run, tossed up by Shadab and Ibrahim drives to long-on.
20.2 - No run, Ibrahim drives but finds the man at cover.
20.1 - No run, tossed up outside off from Shadab and Ibrahim defends.
Over 22: Afghanistan 135/1
21.6 - 1 run, full delivery angled into Rahmat who flicks to long-on.
21.5 - 1 run, Ibrahim reaches out and dabs it past backward point.
21.4 - 1 run, Rahmat pushes to cover for a quick single to get off the mark.
21.3 - No run, Afridi from round the wicket now as Rahmat shoulders arms.
21.3 - Wide! Afridi bangs it short again but it's down leg.
21.2 - No run, Rahmat reaches out and dabs to point.
21.2 - Wide! Banged short outside off but it's too high.
Rahmat Shah, right handed bat, comes to the crease.
21.1 - WICKET! Gurbaz c Usama Mir b Shaheen Afridi 65 (53)
The change of bowling pays immediate dividends! Gurbaz looks to pull the shorter delivery but only gets a thick top-edge that goes flying to deep third man where Usama comes running across and takes a good tumbling catch. That's a good catch from Usama on what has been a terrible day for Pakistan so far in the field.
Pakistan regroup in a huddle now as they look to turn things around and build on this breakthrough.
Pakistan trying to force things here as Shaheen Afridi [4.0-0-20-0] comes back into the attack.
Over 23: Afghanistan 141/1
22.6 - No run, tossed up to Rahmat who drives back to Shadab.
22.5 - 1 run, Ibrahim pushes to cover and races across to rotate strike.
22.4 - No run, tossed up outside off to Ibrahim who defends.
22.3 - No run, googly from Shadab as Ibrahim defends.
22.2 - FOUR! Width offered by Shadab and Ibrahim hammers it through the gap at extra cover.
22.1 - 1 run, tossed up by Shadab and Rahmat flicks to long-on.
Shaheen Shah Afridi delivering the goods for his captain!
Pakistan's Shaheen Shah Afridi celebrates after taking the wicket of Afghanistan's Rahmanullah Gurbaz caught by Usama Mir at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.
Image: REUTERS
Over 24: Afghanistan 148/1
23.6 - 1 run, short into the hips of Ibrahim who tucks to square leg.
23.5 - 1 run, Rahmat reaches out and drives towards cover.
23.4 - 2 runs, full outside off and Rahmat slices it past point.
23.3 - 1 run, full onto the pads and Ibrahim tucks to square leg.
23.2 - 2 runs, Ibrahim drives through the gap at point for an easy two.
23.1 - No run, round the wicket from Afridi as Ibrahim drives to mid-on.
Over 25: Afghanistan 152/1
Afghanistan need 131 runs from 150 balls to win as we reach the halfway mark!
24.6 - No run, streaky! Ibrahim heaves at the loopy delivery but only gets an inside edge to square leg and immediately cramps up.
Rizwan who has plenty of experience with cramps in this tournament is at hand to help out.
24.5 - 1 run, short outside off and Rahmat punches to deep cover.
24.4 - 1 run, tossed up onto the pads and Ibrahim just tickles it along to fine leg.
24.3 - 1 run, Rahmat backs away and punches past point to bring up the 150 for Afghanistan.
24.2 - No run, Rahmat drives it straight to mid-off.
24.1 - 1 run, Shadab tosses it up outside off to Ibrahim who drives to long-off.
Over 26: Afghanistan 155/1
25.6 - 1 run, full onto the stumps and Ibrahim drives to mid-on for a quick single.
25.5 - No run, banged short outside off and Ibrahim leaves for the keeper.
25.4 - No run, full onto the stumps and Ibrahim defends back to Rauf.
25.3 - 1 run, full outside off and Rahmat dabs with soft hands as they push for a quick single. Good running from the Afghanistan duo.
25.2 - 1 run, length delivery to Ibrahim who punches towards cover.
25.1 - 1 run, full onto the stumps and Rahmat flicks to square leg.
Haris Rauf [4.0-1-33-0] is back into the attack for his second spell.
Over 27: Afghanistan 158/1
26.6 - No run, beaten! Ibrahim swings at the shorter delivery and misses as cramps get him again. He's struggling in the middle against the humidity of Chennai.
26.5 - No run, loopy full delivery to Ibrahim who punches to mid-off.
26.4 - 1 run, Rahmat pulls the shorter delivery to long-on.
26.3 - 1 run, Ibrahim dabs to cover for a quick single.
26.2 - No run, beaten! Slower loopy delivery and it whizzes past Ibrahim's cut.
26.1 - No run, tossed up by Usama and Ibrahim punches to point.
Usama Mir [4.0-0-28-0] comes back into the attack.
Over 28: Afghanistan 161/1
27.6 - No run, sharp bouncer and Ibrahim dabs it to backward point.
27.5 - 2 runs, Ibrahim flicks it through midwicket and the fielder gets a hand onto it to save the boundary.
27.4 - 1 run, Rahmat slashes at the back of length delivery but only gets an edge to third man.
27.3 - No run, length delivery outside off and Rahmat dabs to point.
27.2 - No run, full outside off now and Rahmat drives to cover.
27.1 - No run, Rauf bangs it short and Rahmat ducks under it.
Experienced 'cramps master' Rizwan happy to lend a hand!
Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan helps Afghanistan's Ibrahim Zadran at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.
Image: REUTERS
Over 29: Afghanistan 171/1
28.6 - FOUR! Too short again and Rahmat pulls it over midwicket. Really poor from Usama.
28.5 - FOUR! Poor half-tracker from Usama and Rahmat slices it past backward point.
28.4 - No run, loopy full delivery and Rahmat defends.
28.3 - No run, sliding onto leg and Rahmat sweeps straight to short fine leg.
28.2 - 1 run, full outside off to Ibrahim who drives to deep cover.
28.1 - 1 run, slower from Usama and Rahmat punches to long-off.
Over 30: Afghanistan 175/1
Afghanistan need 108 runs from 120 balls to win.
29.6 - No run, angled into Rahmat who pushes to mid-on.
29.5 - 1 run, length delivery outside off and Ibrahim slices past point.
29.4 - No run, full onto the stumps and Ibrahim defends.
29.3 - 1 run, length delivery onto the pads that Rahmat tucks to square leg.
29.3 - Wide! Slower bouncer from Hasan but it's too high.
29.2 - 1 run, short outside off and Ibrahim punches to deep cover.
29.1 - No run, full onto the stumps and Ibrahim drives to mid-on.
Change in the pace department as Hasan Ali [4.0-0-23-0] replaces Haris Rauf.
Over 31: Afghanistan 183/1
Afghanistan need 100 runs from 114 balls as the umpires call for drinks.
30.6 - 1 run, Rahmat skips forward and flicks to long-on to retain strike. Afghanistan seem to be batting on a different surface here as they're making it look easy.
30.5 - No run, tossed up onto the pads and Rahmat defends.
30.4 - FOUR! Excellent from Rahmat as he brings out the reverse sweep to send it racing past backward point.
30.3 - No run, Rahmat leans forward to defend.
30.2 - 1 run, Ibrahim dabs it to cover for a quick single.
30.1 - 2 runs, cheeky paddle scoop from Ibrahim to send it looping towards fine leg.
Iftikhar Ahmed [2.0-0-10-0] comes back into the attack.
Are these Afghanistan fans about to witness another historic win?
Afghanistan fans cheer their team who are chasing a first-ever ODI victory over Pakistan at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.
Image: REUTERS
Over 32: Afghanistan 184/1
31.6 - No run, again Ibrahim is beaten and it's past the inside edge this time as he gets hit on the hip. That was a painful one.
31.5 - No run, beaten! Excellent delivery from Hasan as it stays low and swings past the edge of Ibrahim.
31.4 - No run, tighter line from Hasan as Ibrahim punches to cover.
31.3 - 1 run, back of length delivery and Rahmat slices it to deep cover.
31.2 - No run, full onto the stumps and Rahmat pushes it back to Hasan.
31.1 - No run, length delivery from Hasan and Rahmat punches to cover.
Over 33: Afghanistan 189/1
32.6 - No run, tossed up to Ibrahim who punches back to the bowler.
32.5 - 2 runs, Ibrahim makes room and punches past a diving Imam at cover.
32.4 - No run, fired quicker onto the stumps and Ibrahim defends.
32.3 - 1 run, short from Iftikhar and Rahmat punches to long-on.
32.2 - 2 runs, another cheeky paddle scoop that's expertly executed by Rahmat.
32.1 - No run, short from Iftikhar and Rahmat cuts straight to cover.
Over 34: Afghanistan 191/2
33.6 - 1 run, Shahidi reaches out and cuts it past point to get off the mark.
33.5 - No run, full outside off again and Shahidi drives to cover.
33.4 - No run, full outside off to Shahidi who defends.
Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, left handed bat, comes to the crease.
33.3 - WICKET! Ibrahim Zadran c Rizwan b Hasan Ali 87 (113)
Hasan Ali gets the breakthrough and he is pumped! The pacer gets some extra bounce and Ibrahim who looks to punch, gets a healthy edge that Rizwan gobbles up behind the wickets.
Is this the spark that Pakistan need?
33.2 - No run, full onto the stumps and Ibrahim defends.
33.1 - 1 run, length delivery from Hasan and Rahmat punches through covers.
Over 35: Afghanistan 195/2
34.6 - 1 run, flat outside off and Shahidi gets a big leading edge to send it looping towards point.
34.5 - No run, Shahidi looks to sweep but gets a big edge onto the boots.
34.4 - No run, flatter to Shahidi who defends back to Iftikhar.
34.3 - 1 run, slower to Rahmat who flicks to midwicket.
34.2 - 2 runs, full onto the stumps and Rahmat tucks to square leg as they run hard for two.
34.1 - 1 run, Iftikhar fires it onto the pads as Shahidi drives to long-on.
Are Pakistan missing a trick but not going with pace from both ends?
Over 36: Afghanistan 195/2
35.6 - No run, Rahmat again goes hard on the drive but gets hit on the pads. Excellent from Hasan as he sends down a maiden over to build up the pressure on Afghanistan.
35.5 - No run, Rahmat looks to drive but gets a thick edge onto the pads.
35.4 - No run, another dot for Hasan as Rahmat mistimes it to the leg-side.
35.3 - No run, Hasan targets the stumps again and Rahmat drives to cover.
35.2 - No run, full onto the stumps again from Hasan and Rahmat mistimes the drive to mid-on.
35.1 - No run, full outside off and Rahmat defends.
Over 37: Afghanistan 204/2
36.6 - No run, beaten! Rahmat looks to sweep again but sees it slip past him under the bat.
Now Rahmat cramps up and he immediately seeks the help of cramps doctor Rizwan who is happy to help again.
36.5 - FOUR! Tossed up to Rahmat who sweeps hard to send it looping over midwicket and finds the ropes.
36.4 - 1 run, Shahidi now nudges to square leg to bring up 200 for Afghanistan.
36.3 - FOUR! Excellent from Shahidi as he advances and smacks it past a diving mid-off fielder to break the string of dot balls.
36.2 - No run, Shahidi advances but Shadab drags his length back and hits him on the pads.
36.1 - No run, tossed up outside off to Shahidi who drives back to Shadab.
Shadab Khan [5.0-0-26-0] comes back into the attack. Can he deliver with a wicket?
Over 38: Afghanistan 211/2
37.6 - No run, full outside off now and Rahmat flicks to midwicket.
37.5 - SIX! Beautiful from Rahmat as he lifts the full delivery straight down the ground with excellent timing!
37.4 - No run, another length delivery and Rahmat gets an inside edge towards mid-on.
37.3 - No run, length delivery outside off and Rahmat punches to cover.
37.2 - No run, full onto the stumps and Rahmat drives to cover.
37.1 - 1 run, Hasan bangs it short outside off and Shahidi cuts it past point.
Over 39: Afghanistan 215/2
Afghanistan need 68 runs in 66 balls to win.
38.6 - 1 run, banged short into Rahmat who pushes it to deep cover.
38.5 - No run, beaten! There's just some swing on offer as Rauf gets it to move away from Rahmat who looks to drive.
38.4 - 1 run, full onto the stumps and Shahidi flicks to deep square leg.
38.3 - No run, tighter line from Rauf as Shahidi defends to the on-side.
38.2 - 2 runs, Shahidi reaches out and dabs to deep third man as they run hard for two.
38.1 - No run, round the wicket from Rauf as Shahidi defends towards point.
Haris Rauf [6.0-1-40-0] comes back into the attack.
Over 40: Afghanistan 221/2
Afghanistan need 62 runs in 60 balls to win.
39.6 - 2 runs, full outside off and Rahmat drives it through cover where Shakeel puts in a good dive to cut off the boundary.
39.5 - No run, full onto the stumps and Rahmat flicks to midwicket.
39.4 - 1 run, Shahidi dabs to cover with soft hands for a quick single.
39.3 - 2 runs, full toss outside off from Afridi and Shahidi punches past cover and they run hard for two. Rizwan isn't happy with the throw but it's excellent runnning from the two Afghans.
39.2 - 1 run, Rahmat now drives to deep cover to rotate strike.
39.1 - No run, Review for LBW! Afridi comes round the wicket and hits Rahmat high on the pads. They go for the review but it's a really poor one with impact well outside leg and Pakistan lose one review.
Pace from both ends as Pakistan look to force the issue with Shaheen Afridi [6.0-0-32-1] back into the attack.
Over 41: Afghanistan 225/2 - FIFTY up for Rahmat! 50* (58)
40.6 - 2 runs, Shahidi charges out this time and gets a thick edge that flies past backward point.
40.5 - No run, Shahidi makes room but Shadab follows him with the ball forcing the batter to defend.
40.4 - No run, googly from Shadab and Shahidi punches to point.
40.3 - No run, flatter to Shahidi who defends back to Shadab.
40.2 - 1 run, FIFTY up for Rahmat! 50* (58)
Brilliant fifty from Rahmat as he cuts to deep cover. He raises his bat to acknowledge the applause but seems laser focused on chasing down this target.
40.1 - 1 run, Shahidi hangs back and plays a late cut past backward point.
Shadab Khan [6.0-0-35-0] comes back into the attack.
Over 42: Afghanistan 229/2
Afghanistan need 54 runs in 48 balls to win.
41.6 - No run, short onto the stumps and Rahmat punches to cover.
41.5 - No run, beaten! Wild slash outside off but it's a quicker delivery.
41.4 - No run, Rahmat drives straight to extra cover and denies the risky single.
41.3 - 2 run, excellent running again as Rahat cuts it to deep cover and they run hard for two.
41.2 - 1 run, full onto the stumps and Shahidi flicks to long-on.
41.1 - 1 run, Rahmat brings out the reverse sweep as Usama tosses it up down the middle.
Spin from both ends as Usama Mir [6.0-0-40-0] is back into the attack.
Over 43: Afghanistan 239/2
Afghanistan need 44 runs in 42 balls to win.
42.6 - 2 runs, another good response from Shahidi as he drives to long-on and they again make sure to run two.
42.5 - No run, beaten! Excellent delivery from Shadab as he lands it on leg and the ball spins past the outside edge.
42.4 - No run, shorter from Shadab and Shahidi edges it onto his boots.
42.3 - 2 runs, great running again from Afghanistan as Shahidi flicks it through midwicket and they race across to make it two.
42.2 - FOUR! Excellent from Shahidi as he uses the reverse sweep to send it looping past backward point.
42.1 - 2 runs, Shahidi sweeps hard and Shafique does really well to cut off the boundary at deep midwicket.
Over 44: Afghanistan 248/2
43.6 - 2 runs, Shahidi cuts the back of length delivery and Usama puts in a good dive to cut off the boundary at third man.
43.6 - Wide! Rauf bangs it short but it's too high.
43.5 - 1 run, Rahmat drives down the ground for a single.
43.4 - 1 run, Shahidi clips the length delivery to fine leg to rotate strike.
43.4 - Wide! Pacy back of length delivery down leg from Rauf and Shahidi looks to flick but misses. Rauf is convinced there's an edge but replays confirm it flicked the thigh pad.
43.3 - 1 run, banged short to Rahmat who looks to pull but it comes off the gloves to fine leg.
43.2 - 1 run, Shahidi reaches out and cuts to deep cover.
43.1 - 1 run, short down leg and Rahmat helps it along to short fine leg as Rizwan cuts it off.
Haris Rauf [7.0-1-44-0] is back into the attack.
Over 45: Afghanistan 253/2
44.6 - 1 run, big outside edge from Rahmat that escapes to third man. Fortune favours the brave as everything seems to be going Afghanistan's way at the moment.
44.5 - 1 run, Shahidi mistimes the full delivery it to long-on for an easy single.
44.4 - No run, beaten! Back of length outside off and Shahidi misses out with the cut.
44.3 - 2 runs, Shahidi drives to mid-off for another quick single and they convert it to two from the overthrow. Pakistan just haven't been on it in the field.
44.2 - 1 run, slower onto the stumps and Rahmat drives to mid-off for a quick single. Afridi isn't happy with the single conceded there.
44.1 - No run, full onto the stumps and Rahmat defends back to Afridi.
Pace from both ends now as Shaheen Afridi [7.0-0-38-1] is back into the attack.
Can this duo get Afghanistan across the finish line?
Afghanistan's Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi in action as they run between the wickets at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.
Image: REUTERS
Over 46: Afghanistan 264/2
Afghanistan need just 19 runs in 24 balls to win.
45.6 - 2 runs, Rahmat leans forward and flicks towards long-on for two more.
45.5 - 1 run, Shahidi advances and flicks the ball towards deep midwicket.
45.4 - No run, beaten! Good bounce from Usama as it loops over the edge of Shahidi.
45.3 - 2 runs, width on offer and Shahidi cuts to deep point as they continue running hard.
45.3 - Wide! Now Usama pitches it well outside off.
45.2 - FOUR! Again luck falls Afghanistan's way. Shahidi advances but Usama drags his length back. The Afghan skipper only gets gloves onto the cut that flies past Rizwan.
45.1 - 1 run, loopy full toss and Rahmat drives to long-on.
Usama Mir [7.0-0-44-0] is back into the attack.
Over 47: Afghanistan 272/2
Afghanistan need just 11 runs now from 18 balls to win.
46.6 - 1 run, another firm drive from Rahmat but it's well cut off at cover as they get just one.
46.5 - 2 runs, this time Rahmat drives it superbly through the gap at extra cover for two more.
46.4 - FOUR! Again luck falls Afghanistan's way as a thick outside edge escapes to third man.
46.3 - No run, round the wicket to Rahmat who defends back to Afridi.
46.2 - 1 run, full toss now from Afridi and Shahidi whips it to long leg.
46.1 - No run, beaten! Length delivery from Afridi and Shahidi looks to flick but misses.
Over 48: Afghanistan 279/2
Just 4 runs needed for victory now!
47.6 - No run, length delivery outside off and Shahidi dabs it to point.
47.5 - 1 run, Rahmat flicks it off the pads to deep fine leg.
47.4 - No run, full outside off and Rahmat drives it to cover.
47.3 - SIX! Beautiful from Rahmat as he just lifts it back over Hasan's head for a maximum. Just 5 runs needed for victory now.
47.2 - No run, Rahmat skips down the track but Hasan drags his length back on the slower ball that loops towards mid-off.
47.1 - No run, full onto the pads and Rahmat blocks it back towards Hasan.
Hasan Ali [9.0-1-37-1] comes back into the attack.
Over 49: Afghanistan 282/2
48.6 - FOUR! Shahidi lets out a roar as he flicks the full toss over square leg to find the boundary.
48.5 - 1 run, Rahmat drives to mid-on for a quick single to level the scores! The captain can now finish things off.
48.4 - 1 run, Shahidi skips out and looks for the big hit to finish in style but only edges it uppishly towards third man. Over to Rahmat now.
48.3 - 1 run, Rahmat drives to deep cover for an easy single. 3 runs needed now.
48.2 - No run, full outside off this time and Rahmat blocks it back to Afridi.
48.1 - No run, full onto the stumps from Afridi and Rahmat defends to mid-on.
Afghanistan win by 8 wickets!
It's Afghanistan's highest-successful run chase in ODIs and their first-ever ODI victory against Pakistan as their fans are delirious at the Chepauk stadium.
It's been a sensational performance by Afghanistan who have been excellent in all departments today. The teenager Noor Ahmed (3/49) stepped up on his World Cup debut to help restrict Pakistan to just 282/7.
The Afghan openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz (65) and Ibrahim Zadran (87) then put up a 130-run opening stand to give their team the perfect start.
But it was Rahmat Shah (77*) who came in at no.3 and consolidated things and along with his captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (48*) carried the team across the finish line.
Meanwhile, that's three defeats on the trot for Pakistan who look like a broken team. They never got going with the bat and were horrendous in the field and now face a real up-hill battle to break back into the top four on the points table.
Opener Ibrahim Zadran is the Player of the Match for his fantastic start!
I wanted to go out there (during the run chase) with a positive mind and positive intent, and I did it. We (Gurbaz and himself) have played a lot of cricket with each other, we have good communication while running between the wickets, right from the Under 16 days. The way Gurbaz supported me (in that opening partnershijp) - that helped me and we got the momentum in our favour. I am feeling great for myself and my country.Ibrahim Zadran (87 off 113 balls)
Afghanistan players take a lap of honour at the Chepauk Stadium!
Amazing scenes at the Chepauk as the Afghanistan players are absolutely ecstatic as they take a lap around the stadium thanking the fans. "We've waited a long time for this" says Gurbaz as it's their first win in eight encounters against Pakistan.
What's next for both teams?
Afghanistan find themselves in sixth position on the table and will be looking to continue their upwards march as they travel to Pune next where they'll take on Sri Lanka on October 30.
Pakistan meanwhile are still in fifth position on the table and will be looking to arrest their slump and turn things around after three defeats on the trot. They remain in Chennai where they'll face South Africa next on October 27.
That's it from us for today!
Join us again tomorrow for another pulsating encounter as Bangladesh vs South Africa kicks off at 2 PM.
Follow all the action from that game right here on our page. Till then it's goodbye and goodnight from us.