Pakistan dominated Nepal with a commanding victory by 238 runs

In the opening game of the 2023 Asia Cup in Multan on Wednesday, Pakistan easily defeated Nepal by 238 runs. Babar Azam, the number one batsman in the world, hit his 19th ODI century with 151 off 131 balls, while Iftikhar Ahmed hit his first century with 109*, leading Pakistan to a commanding total of 342/6 in 50 overs. Both batsmen put on fantastic displays. 

The home team's bowlers subsequently kept up the attack, bowling Nepal out for only 104 in 23.4 overs, with speed bowlers Haris Rauf and Shaheen Shah Afridi both taking 2 wickets and leg-spinner Shadab Khan claiming 4/27. The decision to bat first, however, put the hosts in a precarious position as it quickly lost wickets, with both Fakhar Zaman (14) and Imam ul Haq (5) retiring early.