By Omar Khalid, IANS,
Colombo: Pakistan catapulted itself within striking distance of topping Group A by bowling out defending champions Australia for just 176 runs in 46.4 overs in their last World Cup group match at the R.Premadasa Stadium here Saturday.
Fast bowler Umar Gul took 3-30 while Abdul Razzaq picked up 2-8 to help Pakistan skittle out the Australians for their lowest World Cup total since 1992.
Pakistan, who were the last team to beat Australia in a World Cup match, are now in a perfect position to end the Aussies’ 34-match unbeaten streak in the mega event.
The Australians were never comfortable facing a fired up Pakistan attack on a two-paced wicket with just Brad Haddin (42) and Michael Clarke (34) putting up any worthwhile resistance.
Gul scalped Shane Watson (9) early while Aussie skipper Ricky Ponting continued his poor run of form as he fell to left-arm pacer Wahab Riaz for 19.
Gul was the pick of the Pakistan bowlers and he bowled a perfect line and length to keep the Aussies on the back foot. Razzaq was also in top gear after a string of poor bowling spells earlier in the tournament.
Off-spinner Mohammad Hafeez bowled impressively and finished with 1-26 from ten overs. Australia lost their last seven wickets for just 86 runs.