Pakistan and Bangladesh have secured their places in the final of the 4th T20 Blind Cricket World Cup, knocking Sri Lanka and Nepal out of contention in two thrilling semi-finals. Pakistan’s Kamran Akhtar lit up the Multan Cricket Stadium with a historic innings, cementing his team’s dominant performance.
In a one-sided clash against Nepal, Pakistan showcased their prowess. Nepal, batting first, managed a modest total of 94/7 in 20 overs. Pakistan’s Matiullah was the standout bowler, delivering a remarkable spell of 4 overs, taking three wickets for just five runs.
Chasing a paltry target, Pakistan’s openers wasted no time. Kamran Akhtar unleashed fireworks with a stunning knock of 63 not out off just 21 balls, including 12 boundaries and a six. His blistering fifty in just 14 balls set a new record. Babar Ali contributed a composed 32 not out, as Pakistan cruised to victory in just 5.3 overs without losing a wicket. Kamran’s heroics earned him the Player of the Match award, presented by World Blind Cricket Council Secretary General Raymond Moxley and PBCC Chairman Syed Sultan Shah.
Bangladesh Edges Sri Lanka in a Nail-Biter
The second semifinal saw Bangladesh outlast Sri Lanka in a high-scoring thriller. Batting first, Bangladesh posted an imposing 244/6, bolstered by six penalty runs due to Sri Lanka’s slow over rate. Mohammad Salman’s explosive 97 off 49 balls, supported by Arif Hussain’s 81 off 56, powered their innings.
Sri Lanka put up a valiant fight, with Chandana smashing 86 off 54 balls and Dinesh contributing 35 off 28. However, they fell agonizingly short, finishing at 238/4 and handing Bangladesh a six-run victory.
The Final Showdown
The grand finale is set to unfold at the Multan Cricket Stadium on Tuesday, December 3, at 11:00 am, as Pakistan takes on Bangladesh. With neither team having won the Blind T20 World Cup before, the stage is set for an epic battle to claim the ultimate glory.
