Afridi's Cameo drives Pakistan to victory, virtually knocks out India

Shahid Afridi’s excellent knock of 34 off just 18 balls sealed the deal for Pakistan, as they won the match with just one wicket in hand. Pakistan were left to chase a modest target of 245, which was nearly a match winning total for India. But Pakistan’s win has virtually knocked India out of the tournament, thanks to two close losses against Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
Pakistan won the toss and as expected, chose to ball first. While Dhawan looked edgy right from the start, Rohit seemed to be settled. But Dhawan’s stay was ended sooner by Hafeez, who’s slider couldn’t be read by Dhawan. Even Kohli departed for just 5, as he edged one off Gul to Akmal.
Rohit and Rahane seemed to brew up a good partnership. Both of them were looking good, with Rohit well settled for a good score. But debutant Talha removed both of them in quick succession, and India were left reeling at 103-4. But wicketkeeper D Karthik and Ambati Rayudu stabilised things for India. While Dinesh Karthik fell for 23 during the batting powerplay, Rayudu kept the good work going and went on to make a 50. His cautious aggression, followed by Jadeja’s 52 drove India to a par score of 245.
Pakistani openers Ahmed Shehzad and Shahjeel got off to a flier, and got of to 71 of just 10 overs. But Ashwin cleaned up Sharjeel with a good googly, and Amit Mishra got Shehzad. Misbah was unfortunate, as he was run out by Hafeez. Even talented Akmal scrubbed to pressure, as he went for 4 off 17. The scoreline read 4 for 113,  and India were right back into the game. But the adamant partnership of Hafeez and Maqsood took the match away from India. With just 45 more needed, Pakistan were cruising to victory.
But a lower middle order collspse brought India right back into the game. With Afridi the only recogonised batsman, the game was even till the last over, wherein 10 was needed. But two lusty blows sealed the deal for Pakistan, who have to win against Bangladesh to ensure a place in final.