Imad Wasim hauls Pakistan into top four

An unbeaten 49 from Imad Wasim hauled Pakistan from the brink of a shock defeat against basement boys Afghanistan and into fourth place in the World Cup standings after a pulsating Headingley encounter.

Having restricted the Afghans to 227-9 from their 50 overs, Pakistan struggled against Afghanistan’s trio of spinners and still required 45 from five overs when opposing skipper Gulbadin Naib brought himself on to bowl.

However his over went for 18 runs, handing the initiative to Pakistan and Wasim who, with the help of Wahab Riaz, saw his side home with two balls to spare.

Victory moves Pakistan above England, who face India on Sunday, into the final semi-final qualification spot. They have one group game remaining against Bangladesh on Friday.

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