Haris Rauf's Massive Six Against Santner (Source: @kuchbhi12341416/x.com)
The Champions Trophy drama is on pick as Pakistan and New Zealand locked horns in the tournament opener. As the Karachi Stadium witnessed the thrilling match, fans enjoyed a nail-biting thriller.
As Pakistan struggled to chase down the giant total, tail-enders are providing hope with their big hits. The drama escalated when Haris Rauf launched a huge six-off Mitchell Santner, but Daryl Mitchell’s failed attempt stole the spotlight.
Rauf Slams Monstrous Six Against Santner
The Champions Trophy opener couldn’t have been better as the cricket world enjoyed a thrilling contest between Pakistan and New Zealand. While batting first, the Kiwis put on a daunting total and Pakistan’s poor batting performance faded the chances of securing the victory. But the tailenders’ efforts were commendable as they pushed the total.
As the tail-enders were smashing big hits, Haris Rauf’s big hit to Mitchell Santner hyped up the Pakistani fans. In the 45th over, Rauf was on strike and Santner bowled a fine delivery. But Rauf gathered full strength and smashed it over the long on.
As the ball soared high, Daryl Mitchell positioned himself on the boundary, ready for a crucial catch. But fate had another plan as the ball landed successfully as a towering over-boundary. That Moment grabbed the attention.
The Host Starts The Tournament With A Humiliating Defeat
As the Champions Trophy unfolded on Pakistani soil, the hosts started the campaign with a humiliating defeat. While bowling first, the Pakistani bowlers put on a horrible show. After securing two early wickets Will Young and Tom Latham’s tons turned the tide. The Kiwis put on a total of 320 runs against the Pakistan.
Chasing the giant total was a setback but the woes got deeper with the failure of their batting order. Apart from Babar Azam and Salman Agha, the Kiwi bowlers outplayed the entire Pakistani lineup. William O'Rourke and Mitchell Santner led the way with 3 wickets and the other bowlers played a dominating game. With that dominating effort, the Kiwis started off their Champions Trophy journey with a thrilling 60-run win.