In an electrifying final of the World Championship of Legends held at Edgbaston, Birmingham, the India Champions (IND-C) triumphed over the Pakistan Champions (PAK-C) by 5 wickets, sealing the win with just 5 balls to spare.
Match Overview
- Venue: Edgbaston, Birmingham
Date:July 13, 2024 - Result: India Champions won by 5 wickets
- Toss: Pakistan Champions elected to bat first
Pakistan Champions Innings:
After winning the toss, the Pakistan Champions decided to bat first. Despite a promising start, the team could only muster 156/6 in their 20 overs.
Kamran Akmal scored 24 runs off 19 balls, while Shoaib Malik contributed a crucial 41 runs off 36 balls. The Indian bowlers, led by Anureet Singh with 3 wickets, managed to keep the Pakistani batsmen in check.
Key Performers:
- Shoaib Malik: 41 runs (36 balls, 0 fours, 3 sixes)
- Kamran Akmal: 24 runs (19 balls, 4 fours)
- Anureet Singh: 3 wickets for 43 runs (4 overs)
India Champions Innings:
Chasing 157, the India Champions started strong with Ambati Rayudu’s blistering 50 off 30 balls.
Despite losing early wickets, contributions from Gurkeerat Singh Mann (34 off 33 balls) and Yusuf Pathan (30 off 16 balls) helped steady the innings.
Irfan Pathan’s quick 5 not out off 4 balls ensured India crossed the finish line at 159/5 in 19.1 overs.
Key Performers:
- Ambati Rayudu: 50 runs (30 balls, 5 fours, 2 sixes)
- Yusuf Pathan: 30 runs (16 balls, 1 four, 3 sixes)
- Aamer Yamin: 2 wickets for 29 runs (3 overs)
Match Summary:
Pakistan Champions’ innings was marked by regular fall of wickets, which prevented them from building substantial partnerships.
Despite the efforts of Shoaib Malik and some late hitting by Sohail Tanvir, they set a target of 157.
The India Champions, in response, chased the target down efficiently with key contributions from their middle order, showcasing their batting depth and composure under pressure.
This thrilling final highlighted the experience and skills of legendary players from both sides.
The India Champions’ balanced team effort with both bat and ball proved decisive in clinching the title.
The Pakistan Champions, despite a valiant effort, fell short but showed glimpses of brilliance, especially through Shoaib Malik and Kamran Akmal’s innings.
With this victory, the India Champions have not only lifted the prestigious World Championship of Legends trophy but also rekindled the legendary rivalry in the most spectacular fashion.
