India delivered a stunning performance in the Asia Cup 2023 Super 4 match, as they trounced arch-rivals Pakistan by a remarkable margin of 228 runs in Colombo on a memorable Monday. This victory not only sealed India’s dominance but also etched a new record in their cricketing history, marking their largest-ever win against Pakistan in One Day Internationals (ODIs).

On the flip side, this crushing defeat became Pakistan’s third heaviest loss in ODIs against any opponent, showcasing the extent of India’s supremacy on this day.

Chasing a daunting target of 357 runs, Pakistan faced a relentless Indian bowling attack. Their pursuit was marred by injuries, with Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf unable to bat. Spinner Kuldeep Yadav emerged as the standout performer for India, wreaking havoc with figures of 5-25 in eight impressive overs.

In a dismal batting display, Fakhar Zaman emerged as Pakistan’s top-scorer with a modest 27 runs off 50 deliveries. Agha Salman and Iftikhar Ahmed contributed 23 runs each but failed to provide the required impetus to the innings. Pakistan’s star batter and captain, Babar Azam, endured a challenging day, managing only 10 runs in 24 balls before being dismissed by a brilliant delivery from Hardik Pandya.

India’s path to victory was paved by the sublime centuries from their batting maestros, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul. The duo’s exceptional performance set a monumental target of 357 runs for Pakistan to chase. The match, which was initially delayed due to rain, witnessed India’s dominance as soon as the players took the field.

Virat Kohli remained unbeaten with a breathtaking 122 runs off 94 balls, embellished with nine boundaries and three towering sixes. Meanwhile, KL Rahul showcased his class with an unbeaten 111 runs off 106 deliveries, featuring an impressive tally of 14 boundaries.

The Indian innings culminated with a formidable total of 356-2 in their allotted 50 overs, leaving Pakistan wicketless on the reserve day. The remarkable partnership between Kohli and Rahul not only solidified India’s position but also demonstrated their batting prowess in the Asia Cup 2023.