PCB Chairman Zaka Ashraf has announced a generous reward of Rs 1 million for Fakhar Zaman, the Pakistani opener, in recognition of his outstanding performance during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 match against New Zealand. Zaman’s unbeaten century played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s 21-run victory (DLS) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
PCB Media shared the exciting news on ‘X,’ revealing that Zaman had a telephone conversation with Ashraf after the match. Zaman is set to receive the Rs 1 million reward for his remarkable knock against New Zealand.
“Zaka Ashraf, the Chairman of the PCB Management Committee, talked to Fakhar Zaman on the phone. Ashraf appreciated Zaman’s impressive innings of 126 runs today and declared a reward of Rs 1 million for his outstanding performance. He expressed hope that Zaman will continue to perform well in the upcoming matches,” PCB Media shared on ‘X.’
In the initial innings, New Zealand set a formidable target of 401 for 6, thanks to Rachin Ravindra’s brilliant century and captain Kane Williamson’s 79-ball 95 upon his return from injury.
Fakhar Zaman led Pakistan’s response with a sensational century off just 63 balls. His innings showcased aggressive hitting, especially against Trent Boult and Glenn Philips. This century marks the fastest in Pakistan’s World Cup history. Meanwhile, Babar Azam contributed significantly by scoring a brilliant fifty during the run-chase.
Despite rain interrupting play in Bengaluru with Pakistan at 200 for 1 in 25.3 overs, the DLS method determined Pakistan as the victors by 21 runs. This win keeps Pakistan alive in the race for the semi-finals in the ongoing ODI World Cup.