Article Posted on 26 September, 2023

As the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 draws near, cricket fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the spectacle set to unfold in India. Teams from around the globe are preparing to showcase their skills on the grand stage, and the excitement is palpable. Among the teams generating considerable buzz is the one donning the green shirts, Pakistan.

A Team on the Rise

Pakistan's One-Day International (ODI) performances in recent times have been nothing short of exceptional. As they gear up for the forthcoming Asia Cup on August 31st, preceded by a riveting three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, cricket enthusiasts have their eyes firmly fixed on this formidable squad.

Babar Azam, the talismanic leader, stands at the helm of this impressive lineup. With a balanced and robust contingent of players in the fifty-over format, the future looks promising for the green shirts.

Reliving the Glory

Before we dive into the upcoming World Cup, it's only fitting to take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of Pakistan's most memorable moments on the World Cup stage. Join us as we delve into the top 5 World Cup innings played by Pakistan's batting maestros. These performances have etched their place into cricketing folklore.

1. Inzamam ul Haq 60 vs NZ - 1992

Before the night of the 1992 Cricket World Cup semi-final, a 22-year-old Inzamam-ul-Haq wasn't even sure if he would feature in the playing XI. However, his pivotal knock of 60 runs off 37 balls, played 31 years ago, remains one of the greatest World Cup innings by a Pakistani. This innings showcased his resilience and was a turning point for Pakistan in that tournament.

2. Imran Nazir 160 vs Zim - 2007

In a World Cup overshadowed by tragedy following the death of Pakistan's head coach Bob Woolmer, Imran Nazir provided a glimmer of hope. His explosive innings of 160 runs off 121 balls against Zimbabwe is etched in history as the highest individual score in an ODI World Cup by a Pakistani. Nazir's audacious stroke play was a testament to his remarkable talent.

3. Misbah-ul-Haq 83 vs SL - 2011

In the 2011 Cricket World Cup, Misbah-ul-Haq played a pivotal role in guiding Pakistan to victory against Sri Lanka. With Pakistan at 105 for 3 in the 20th over, Misbah's calm and composed innings of 83 runs, featuring six boundaries, proved to be the difference-maker. Pakistan secured a crucial win by 11 runs, thanks to Misbah's heroic effort.

4. Saeed Anwar 113 vs NZ - 1999

Saeed Anwar's elegant left-handed stroke play was on full display in the 1999 World Cup semi-final against New Zealand. Chasing a target of 242 runs, Anwar's magnificent innings of 113 runs off 148 balls steered Pakistan to a comfortable 9-wicket victory. This memorable knock remains a testament to his class and skill.

5. Babar Azam 101 vs NZ - 2019

Babar Azam, Pakistan's current captain, demonstrated his mettle on the world stage during the 2019 Cricket World Cup. Facing New Zealand's formidable bowling attack, including Trent Boult and Matt Henry, Babar Azam played a masterful innings of 101 not out. This innings showcased his ability to anchor the innings and guide Pakistan to victory.

Looking Ahead to CWC 2023

As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the Cricket World Cup 2023, the question arises: Who will emerge as Pakistan's hero in the forthcoming tournament? The green shirts, led by Babar Azam, carry the hopes of a nation and are poised to create new moments of glory on the world stage.

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