Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma made India’s 238-run target against Pakistan in the Asia Cup on Sunday, 23 September, look like a cakewalk.
The Pakistani bowlers seemed to have nothing on the duo who stitched a record 210-run partnership, India's best opening stand in the Asia Cup ODIs. Dhawan was run out for 114, however Rohit remained unbeaten on 111. The captain along with Ambati Rayudu crossed the line with 9 wickets in hand, and 63 balls remaining, thus registering India’s biggest ODI win over Pakistan while chasing.
India surpassed its previous best of eight wickets in the group stage of the same tournament and on five other occasions.
Dhawan made his second century of the tournament and the 15th of his ODI career, while his captain Sharma scored his 19th ODI ton.
Pakistan was guilty of dropping Sharma twice — once on 14 with the Indian total on 29 and then when he was on 81 — and he took full advantage of the reprieves. His innings included seven fours and four sixes.
In contrast, Dhawan played a chanceless knock and smashed 16 fours and two sixes.
India is now almost assured a place in the final on Friday. It will take on Afghanistan on Tuesday in its last Super Four stage match, while Pakistan will have to beat Bangladesh in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.
Both teams won their opening Super Four stage matches. India was dominant in its comprehensive seven-wicket win over Bangladesh, while Pakistan triumphed over Afghanistan with just three balls to spare.
India is now almost assured a place in the final on 28 September. It will take on Afghanistan on 25 September in its last Super Four stage match, while Pakistan will have to beat Bangladesh in Abu Dhabi on 26 September.
(With inputs from AP)