Top 3 second-wicket partnerships in ODI Asia Cup

The upcoming ODI Asia Cup 2023 is generating immense excitement among cricket enthusiasts. This prestigious tournament serves as a showcase for the 50-over format. It will help teams to fine tune their strategies and preparations for the upcoming ODI World Cup. In the 50-over format Batters hold the key to succes, as they set the stage for competitive totals and thrilling contests.

In the fast-paced world of One Day Internationals, batters dictate the game’s rhythm by crafting partnerships, exploiting field restrictions, and scoring crucial runs. Their ability to adapt to varying match situations and opposition strategies can make or break a team’s chances. So in toady’s article we will discuss about top 3 2nd wicket partnerships in the ODI World Cup. 

#3. Lahiru Thirimanne and Kumar Sangakkara 161 vs Pakistan 2014

In the 2014 ODI Asia Cup, Lahiru Thirimanne and Kumar Sangakkara showed their brilliance with a remarkable century partnership. Thirimanne scored his second ODI century by scoring 110 runs while Sangakkara and Angelo Mathews hit half-centuries. Sri Lanka set a challenging target of 297 against Pakistan in the opening match at Fatullah.

Notably, this outstanding partnership ranks as the third-highest second-wicket partnership in the history of the ODI Asia Cup. Despite a fighting effort from the Pakistani team, Sri Lanka managed to win the game by 12 runs. 

#2. Virender Sehwag and Suresh Raina 198 vs Pakistan 2008

In the 2008 ODI Asia Cup, Virender Sehwag and Suresh Raina showcased their cricket brilliance, crafting a remarkable partnership against Pakistan. Sehwag’s explosive century, a blazing 119 runs, and Raina’s aggressive 84 not out powered India to a convincing six-wicket triumph, with a comfortable 7.5 overs to spare. This victory was especially satisfying for India, as it avenged their recent defeat to Pakistan in the Kitply tri-series final.

The highlight of the match was Sehwag and Raina’s partnership, a scintillating display of batting synergy. Their combined efforts led India to a commanding total of 301 for four in just 42.1 overs, successfully chasing down Pakistan’s competitive target of 299 for four. This exceptional partnership secured its place in history as the second-highest second-wicket partnership in the ODI Asia Cup, emphasizing its significance in the tournament and showcasing the duo’s cricket prowess.

#1. Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir 205 vs Sri Lanka 2012

In the 2012 ODI Asia Cup clash against Sri Lanka, India’s opening batsman Gautam Gambhir and the newly-appointed vice-captain Virat Kohli teamed up to create a remarkable partnership. They combined their efforts to score an impressive 205 runs for the second wicket, powering India to a substantial total of 304/3. This partnership is highest second-wicket partnership in the history of the ODI Asia Cup.

As India faced an early setback with the loss of Sachin Tendulkar at a mere 19 runs, Kohli took charge and swiftly raced to a fifty, converting it into a century in Nuwan Kulasekara’s over. Kohli achieved this milestone in just 114 balls, marking his 10th ODI century and his second consecutive one against the Sri Lankan team.

Gambhir’s contribution was equally remarkable, reaching his century in 116 balls, just one delivery after Kohli, and also securing his 10th ODI century. Bolstered by this stellar performance and backed by notable bowling efforts from Irfan Pathan, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Vinay Kumar, India successfully limited Sri Lanka to 254 runs, clinching a victory by a margin of 50 runs.