World Cup 2023: In the spirited city of Bengaluru, during the pivotal 35th match of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 between New Zealand and Pakistan, a significant cricketing milestone was achieved. Hasan Ali, Pakistan’s fiery fast bowler, captured the limelight by claiming his 100th victim in One Day Internationals, thereby etching his name among the quickest Pakistani pacers to reach the milestone.
As the match unfolded, critical for both teams with semi-final aspirations on the line, Pakistan, after winning the toss, put New Zealand to bat. While the Kiwis launched a solid start, their fortitude was put to the test in the 11th over. It was Hasan Ali who delivered the breakthrough, propelling Pakistan forward in the contest and simultaneously attaining his personal landmark of 100 ODI wickets.
World Cup 2023: New Zealand’s openers, Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra, were off to a flying start, notching up 66 runs in the powerplay overs. However, their thriving partnership was dismantled at 68 when Hasan Ali stepped in right after the powerplay concluded, bringing an end to Conway’s innings at a personal tally of 35 runs from 39 deliveries. This dismissal marked Conway as Hasan’s centennial dismissal in ODIs.
Achieving this feat in his 66th match, Hasan Ali has surpassed the record previously held by the veteran Umar Gul, who reached his 100th wicket in 67 matches. This achievement has not only highlighted Ali’s skill but also his critical value to the Pakistani bowling lineup.
World Cup 2023: In the grand tapestry of Pakistan’s cricket history, Shaheen Afridi reigns supreme as the fastest to 100 ODI wickets, having reached the milestone in his 51st match. He is followed by legends like Waqar Younis, who accomplished this in 59 matches, Shoaib Akhtar in 60, and Rana Naved Ul Hasan in 65. Hasan Ali, with his remarkable consistency and lethal bowling, now proudly stands among these illustrious names.
As the World Cup progresses, Hasan Ali’s emergence as a leading fast bowler for Pakistan bodes well for the team. His journey to 100 ODI wickets not only marks a personal triumph but also signifies a beacon of excellence for aspiring fast bowlers in Pakistan’s rich cricketing domain.
Image Credit – nation
