World Cup 2019: Prime Minister Imran Khan congratulates Pakistan for win over New Zealand

Former Pakistan skipper Imran Khan might have become the Prime Minister of the country but he still manages to take some time away from his busy schedule and follow Pakistan cricket team this World Cup. On Thursday, the World Cup-winning skipper congratulated Pakistan team after their comprehensive win over New Zealand in Birmingham. The Men in Green beat the Black Caps by six wickets to keep their semifinal hopes alive.

Buoyed by the impressive win over South Africa in the last outing, Pakistan put up another clinical display to end New Zealand’s unbeaten run in the competition. Sarfaraz Ahmed’s decision to bowl first turned out to be spot on as Pakistan pacers blew away New Zealand’s top-order. After Mohammad Amir dismissed Martin Guptill in the second over, Shaheen Afridi dismissed Colin Munro, Ross Taylor and Tom Latham to rip Kiwis batting line-up apart.

Shadab Khan then accounted for Kane Williamson to leave New Zealand reeling at 83 for 5. But before Pakistan could inflict more damage on the Kiwis, Jimmy Neesham and Colin de Grandhomme batted them out of trouble. The two went on to score the fifties to help their side post a challenging 237 for 6 in the stipulated 50 overs.

In reply, Pakistan started poorly as they lost both their openers – Imam-ul-Haq and Fakhar Zaman cheaply. On a tough pitch, it was just the kind of start that New Zealand needed. However, Babar Azam stood firm from one end and found good support from Haris Sohail as the two took their side over the line. Babar remained unbeaten on 101 while Haris was run out for 68 when Pakistan needed two more. Sarfaraz Ahmed then hit a boundary to seal the game.

Imran Khan congratulates Pakistan:

Soon after the win, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan took to Twitter to congratulate the team. He also pointed out Babar Azam, Haris Sohail and Shaheen Afridi for their impressive performances, writing

“Congratulations to our cricket team for a great comeback. Congratulations especially go to Babar, Haris and Shaheen for their brilliant performances.”

Congratulations to our cricket team for a great comeback. Congratulations especially go to Babar, Haris and Shaheen for their brilliant performances.

— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) June 26, 2019

Pakistan will now take on Bangladesh and Afghanistan in their remaining two league matches.