Marcus Stoinis struck in consecutive overs to remove both openers

Zampa's Decisive Strikes

Adam Zampa's crucial breakthroughs in the middle order proved to be the turning point. He dismissed Babar Azam, with Pat Cummins taking a stunning catch. 

Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel then provided a partnership, keeping Pakistan's hopes alive. Even after Shakeel's dismissal, Iftikhar Ahmed's fearless batting reignited Pakistan's chances with three consecutive sixes. 

With 103 runs required from 72 balls, Pakistan appeared to be mounting a remarkable comeback. But Zampa's magic on the field dashed their hopes as he dismissed Iftikhar and Rizwan leg-before-wicket in consecutive overs. 

With these crucial strikes, the chase slowly fizzled out. Zampa completed his quota with another wicket in the final over, securing a significant 62-run win for Australia.

Adam Zampa exults after getting rid of Babar Azam

Warner and Marsh's Dazzling Display

Earlier, Warner and Marsh displayed a relentless onslaught, targeting the pace of Haris Rauf. Warner's audacious six over fine leg, followed by Marsh's three consecutive boundaries in the same over, highlighted their dominance.

While Warner maintained a strike rate over 100, Marsh accelerated after reaching his half-century, keeping Pakistan at bay. Only an early opportunity grasped by debutant Usama Mir could have changed the course of the game, but Warner's survival proved costly for Pakistan.

The partnership between Warner and Marsh grew stronger, and the run-fest continued. Marsh eventually departed for a remarkable 121, and Glenn Maxwell's promotion didn't pan out as hoped. 

Despite these setbacks, Warner's incredible form enabled him to surpass 150 for the seventh time in his career, positioning Australia for a grand finish. 

At 297/3 after 40 overs, the possibility of reaching 400 seemed real. But Pakistan had other plans, launching an impressive late comeback after Warner's dismissal for a staggering 163. Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf led the charge, taking regular wickets and allowing Pakistan to regain their footing.

Mitchell Marsh and David Warner piled on the runs in the first powerplay

The clash between Australia and Pakistan in Bengaluru will be remembered for its roller-coaster of a match. David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, and Adam Zampa's exceptional performances were the highlights of this thrilling encounter.

Despite their valiant chase, Pakistan fell short in the end. This game adds another chapter to the exciting narrative of the 2023 ICC Men's World Cup.

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