Skipper salman ali agha

Skipper Scott Edwards’ batting efforts were overpowered by Salman Mirza, whose three-wicket haul, combined with Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed and Saim Ayub’s efforts, helped Pakistan restrict the Netherlands to 147/10 in 19.5 overs in the ICC T20 World Cup opener here at Sinhalese Sports Club on Saturday.

Put to bat first, Michael Levitt and Max O'Dowd got their side off to a brisk start. 22-year-old Levitt made his intentions clear in the initial overs as he found the gaps for a couple of boundaries and a maximum, helping the Netherlands score 28 runs in three overs. However, the momentum soon broke as Salman Mirza dismissed Max, who played second fiddle in the partnership, for just five.