AfghanisPakistan secured a thrilling 21-run victory over New Zealand in a crucial match at the 2023 Cricket World Cup, keeping their tournament hopes alive.tan secured their fourth victory of the tournament in the match.

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The game, played in Bengaluru, was characterized by a high-scoring encounter, where New Zealand posted an imposing total of 401-6.

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Pakistan's chase was going strong at 160-1 in the 21st over when the first rain interruption occurred, leading to a revised target of 342 runs in 41 overs through the DLS method.

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Fakhar Zaman played a stellar innings, scoring a sensational century off just 63 balls, setting a new record for the fastest century by a Pakistan batter in World Cup history.

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Captain Babar Azam also contributed significantly, staying solid at the crease with Fakhar Zaman, which propelled Pakistan to 200-1 in the 26th over before the second rain break.

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The second rain interruption persisted, ultimately leading to the game's premature end. Pakistan was declared the winner based on their lead over the required run rate.

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New Zealand began the tournament by winning four straight, but have suffered four consecutive defeats and are in danger of missing out on making the top four.

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Pakistan, on the other hand, secured their fourth win out of eight games and moved up one position in tournament standings to fifth with just one match left to play.

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Pakistan's win against New Zealand renewed their hopes of reaching the World Cup semifinals and with only one match remaining to go they remain competitive for one of four spots.

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