Pakistan crush India by 8 wkts to stay afloat

Familiar Team India opponent Younis Khan (123 not out) rose to the instance with a dazzling century as Pakistan chased down a threatening target course to an eight-wicket win against their lackluster archrivals to stay floating in the Asia Cup cricket tournament.

With Captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni (76), Rohit Sharma (58) and Virender Sehwag (49) chipping in with the bat, India put 308 for seven on the board.

Their languid bowling colleagues, however, could not defend the total and Pakistan speed to 309 for two wickets in 45.3 overs to make the chase look like a leisurely walk in the park.

Chasing 309 to stay afloat in the tournament, Pakistan got off to a rollicking start with Nasir Jamshed (53) and Salman Butt (36) taking the Indian attack by the scruff of its neck.

And when Butt returned, following an almighty mix-up, and Jamshed retired hurt due to dehydration, Younis Khan once again emerged as India's bogeyman, while stand-in skipper Misbah-ul-Haq (70 not out off 62 balls) ensured it remains an all-round memorable outing for him.

Pakistan meet Bangladesh day after and going by form, the hosts should not have much of a problem taming the minnows. In such a case, run-rate might play a vital role in deciding who play the Lankans on Sunday.