Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi: Pitch Report in ODIs

Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, one of the prime cricketing venues in Pakistan, has seen as many as 26 One Day Internationals there since it was first begun. The pitch has witnessed some high-scoring games as it is generally a batting-friendly pitch. It changes the conditions as slight support for the pacers sometimes can cause the middle part of the game to swing towards one side's favor. This venue does demand adaptation of game plans from both batsmen and bowlers.

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 A surface that favors batting but offers movement early on

The pitch at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is generally favorable for batting, with an average first-innings score of 242. The surface provides good bounce and carry, allowing batsmen to play their shots freely. However, fast bowlers can extract movement in the initial overs, especially under overcast conditions. Spinners also play a role later in the innings as the pitch starts to wear out.

Out of the 26 ODIs played at this venue, teams batting first have won 11 matches, while teams chasing have secured victory in 14 encounters. The average second innings score of 213 suggests that chasing teams often find it slightly challenging, but not impossible, to overhaul targets. This makes the toss an interesting factor, with captains needing to assess the pitch carefully before making a decision.

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The highest total recorded at the stadium in an ODI is 375/3, a testament to how well batsmen can dominate on this pitch when set. In contrast, the lowest total recorded stands at 75 all out, showing that there can be occasional collapses if the conditions favor bowlers. The highest successful run chase at this venue is 349/4, proving that big totals are not always safe. On the other hand, the lowest total ever defended is 170/8, highlighting that disciplined bowling can still make an impact.

Given the pitch conditions, winning the toss will probably favor teams as it will give them the option to bowl first and take advantage of the early movement available for the fast bowlers. But with an average first innings score of 242, batting first and putting up a competitive total is also very much possible. A successful win at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium depends on building a strong partnership while batting and making good use of pace variations in the second innings.

Total ODIs Played at this venue: 26

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Average first innings score: 242

Teams won while batting first: 11

Team won while batting second: 14

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