Pakistan v India 1997-98

Toss: Pakistan.

Stone-throwing from the crowd interrupted Pakistan's innings four times, and perhaps cost them the match. When Ganguly became the fifth Indian fielder to be hit, Tendulkar told referee Madugalle he could not risk his players any longer, and Madugalle agreed. Pakistan were halted in mid-over and their disappointed supporters murmured that, with Inzaman-ul-Haq unbeaten on 74, India might have faced a target much stiffer than 266 from 47 had he continued to hit out for another three overs. Pakistan's initial momentum came from Shahid Afridi, who sturck 72 in 56 balls, with nine fours and a six. Ganguly was almost as forceful in reply. He hit 89 off 96 balls, with 11 fours. India then stumbled, losing four quick wickets, two to run-outs. But Robin Singh, with a run-a-ball 31, and Karim fought back in a stand of 62. Off-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq suddenly went for 33 in three overs, perhaps suffering from the mix-up when a worn ball which had gone out of shape was replaced by a brand new one. Even then, Karim's dismissal might have ended India's challenge, but Chauhan hit a six in the final over to ensure victory.