Pakistan defeated India by 68 runs in the eighth match of the World Championship of Legends 2024 at Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham on Saturday. This victory marks the third consecutive win for Younis Khan and his team, propelling them to the top of the points table in the six-team competition. They had previously secured wins against Australia and the West Indies.
Pakistan batted first and posted an imposing total of 243/4. The opening pair, Sharjeel Khan and Kamran Akmal, provided a blistering start, accumulating 145 runs for the first wicket. Sharjeel scored a rapid 72 off 30 balls, featuring seven fours and five sixes, before he was dismissed in the 11th over. Kamran Akmal continued the aggressive onslaught, making 77 off 40 balls before Pawan Negi bowled him in the 14th over. Sohaib Maqsood further bolstered the innings with a powerful 51 off 26 balls, while Shoaib Malik remained unbeaten with 25 off 18 balls.
India started strongly with Robin Uthappa scoring 22 off 12 balls before Sohail Khan removed him. Ambati Rayudu and Suresh Raina tried to stabilize the innings, but Shoaib Malik’s crucial dismissal of Rayudu (39) and his tight bowling kept the run rate in check. Wahab Riaz then dismantled India’s middle order, taking key wickets including Irfan Pathan (15) and Pawan Negi (1) in one over. Raina fought valiantly with 52 off 40 balls, but Sohail Tanvir bowled him in the 19th over.
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Pakistan’s Bowlers Shine Bright
India ultimately managed 175/9 in their 20 overs, with Anureet Singh adding a late 20* off 14 balls. Shoaib Malik and Wahab Riaz were the standout bowlers for Pakistan, taking three wickets each with figures of 3/38 and 3/22, respectively. This dominant performance by Pakistan not only secured their spot at the top of the points table but also showcased their strong form in the tournament.
[…] Read: Pakistan Outclass India by 68 Runs in World Championship of Legends […]