KEY POINTS
- Pakistan posted 150 runs, but Mark Keirle’s 5-wicket haul dismantled their batting lineup.
- Australia chased down the target of 151 runs with seven balls to spare.
- Humayun Farhat named best batter, Mark Keirle best bowler, and Antoniel Atolia named Player of the Tournament.
KARACHI: Australia clinched the Over-40 T20 World Cup trophy with a seven-wicket victory over previously unbeaten hosts Pakistan in a thrilling final at the National Bank Stadium, ending the tournament on a dramatic note.
The victory, which left thousands of fans astonished, unfolded amidst unexpected twists, including the much-anticipated but missing appearance of legendary all-rounder Shahid Khan Afridi.
Pakistan’s Batting Efforts Fall Short
Batting first, Pakistan posted a modest total of 150 runs for the loss of nine wickets. Former Test cricketers Fawad Alam and Nadim Javed were the top contributors, scoring 24 runs each.
Despite their efforts, Australia’s Mark Keirle stole the show with a spectacular bowling performance, taking five wickets for just 22 runs.
Alam, who had impressed with the bat and ball throughout the tournament, could not change the outcome for Pakistan in the final.
Australia’s Confident Chase Secures the Title
Australia’s chase was measured and steady. With a target of 151 runs, the Aussies achieved the target with seven balls to spare and only three wickets down.
Stephen Phelson played a key role, scoring 42 runs off 34 balls, while Steve Notley’s 47 off 40 balls provided the necessary support.
Pakistan’s Fawad Alam took two wickets, but it wasn’t enough to halt Australia’s march to victory.
Individual Accolades and Award Winners
In individual accolades, Pakistan’s Humayun Farhat was named the tournament’s best batter, having scored a total of 312 runs, including a record 23 sixes.
Australia’s Mark Keirle, the standout performer in the final, finished as the best bowler with 19 wickets.
Khalid Qureshi of Hong Kong earned the title of best wicketkeeper, while Rest of the World’s Har Shad was honored as the best fielder.
The prestigious Player of the Tournament award went to Antoniel Atolia of the West Indies.
Memorable Closing Ceremony
The grand prize distribution ceremony was graced by several cricket legends, including former Pakistan Test captains Javed Miandad, Mushtaq Mohammad, and other notable veterans such as Sadiq Mohammad and Jalaluddin.
The awards were presented by Sterling Hemin, Chairman of the International Masters Cricket Council, marking the end of an unforgettable tournament filled with passion, remarkable performances, and emotional moments.
