Pakistan crushed Afghanistan by 142 runs in the first ODI of their three-match series in Hambantota on Friday. Haris Rauf took a career-best 5 for 31, while Babar Azam scored 117 runs to help Pakistan post a challenging 201-9. Afghanistan was bowled out for just 59 in 19.2 overs, their second-lowest ODI total.
Rauf was the star of the show with the ball, taking five wickets in his first six overs. He was particularly impressive with his yorkers, which he bowled with great accuracy and pace. The other bowlers also contributed, with Shaheen Afridi taking 2 for 21 and Shadab Khan taking 2 for 24.
Azam was the top scorer for Pakistan with 117 runs off 108 balls. He hit 13 fours and a six in his innings. Imam-ul-Haq also made a useful contribution with 43 runs.
Afghanistan's batting was a complete failure. They lost wickets at regular intervals and never got going. Rahmat Shah top-scored with 23 runs, but no other batsman reached double figures.
The win gives Pakistan a 1-0 lead in the series. The second ODI will be played on Sunday in Hambantota.