Pakistan’s troubles in England aren’t ending as the tourists went on to lose third consecutive ODI game thus handling hosts an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-game ODI series. In the Nottingham ODI, England won the toss and took the safe route by deciding to bowl first.
While the English bowling unit delivered a strong performance, a lack of intent from Pakistan was also witnessed as the green shirts were able to post only 340 on a track where 400 is becoming a norm. On the positive side, belligerent opening batsman Fakhar Zaman’s bat continued to spit fire as he smashed a 50-ball 57 to help Pakistan start the innings positively.
After the injury of his partner Imam-ul-Haq, the Mardan born decided to change gears as he attacked the opposition in the powerplay overs. In his spicy knock of 57 runs, the 29-year old smashed 5 fours and 2 sixes. Fakhar also managed to post a 100 plus partnership partnering with Babar Azam. The platform allowed Pakistan to launch an attack later in the innings. However, the dearth of power-hitters joined hands with lifeless fielding display to handle Pakistan defeat in a close game.
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