Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium witnessed an electrifying Qualifier clash on Monday, as UMT Markhors secured their spot in the final with a convincing 29-run victory over Nurpur Lions. A stellar knock from Fakhar Zaman and a lethal spell by pacer Akif Javed were the cornerstones of Markhors’ triumph, setting the stage for a high-stakes final against ABL Stallions on Wednesday.
After being put into bat, UMT Markhors faced an early collapse, slumping to 3-23 within the powerplay. Afaq Afridi’s fiery spell, which saw him claim three wickets, threatened to derail the Markhors’ innings. However, Fakhar Zaman, undeterred by the precarious situation, produced a sublime knock. His 89 off 64 balls, featuring five towering sixes and nine boundaries, turned the tide.
Zaman’s crucial partnerships with Abdul Samad (41 not out off 20 balls) and Mohammad Nawaz (10) added significant impetus to the innings. The duo of Zaman and Samad piled on 82 runs for the sixth wicket, propelling the Markhors to a challenging total of 180-6 in their allotted 20 overs.
Nurpur Lions Falter Under Pressure
Chasing 181, Nurpur Lions stumbled early, losing both openers, Imam-ul-Haq (1) and Omair Bin Yousuf (2), cheaply. Despite a valiant effort by Mohammad Taha (44 off 28) and Hasan Nawaz (27 off 22), who stitched together a 62-run stand, the Lions’ middle-order failed to capitalize.
Pacer Akif Javed emerged as the architect of the Lions’ downfall, claiming 3-22 with his disciplined bowling. Nisar Ahmed chipped in with 2-19, further tightening the screws. The Lions managed 151-9 in 20 overs, falling short by 29 runs.
Though on the losing side, Afaq Afridi showcased his bowling prowess, following up his hat-trick in the previous game with figures of 3-29. His early strikes, including dismissing Khawaja Mohammad Nafay and Mohammad Faizan for ducks, provided a glimmer of hope for the Lions. However, the lack of substantial partnerships beyond the third wicket spelled doom for the side.
Key Moments of the Match
- Fakhar’s Fireworks: Zaman’s knock anchored the innings, proving to be the defining factor in Markhors’ victory.
- Akif’s Magic: Javed’s precision with the ball ensured the Lions never gained momentum during their chase.
- Afaq’s Early Spell: Afridi’s efforts in the powerplay momentarily tilted the game in favor of the Lions but lacked follow-up support.
With this win, UMT Markhors advance to the final of the five-team tournament, where they will face the formidable ABL Stallions. Meanwhile, Nurpur Lions conclude their campaign in third place, with Lake City Panthers and Engro Dolphins rounding off the bottom spots.
- Top Scorer: Fakhar Zaman (89 off 64)
- Best Bowler: Akif Javed (3-22)
- Standout All-Rounder: Abdul Samad (41 not out off 20 and key contributions in the field)
Unsurprisingly, Fakhar Zaman was adjudged Player of the Match for his game-changing innings that single-handedly resurrected the Markhors from a dire situation.