India Champions were crowned the World Championship of Legends 2024 winners, as they defeated familiar foes Pakistan Champions by five wickets here at Edgbaston on Saturday. The Yuvraj Singh-led side showcased their dominance in the competition and secured the coveted title in a match that went down to the wire as the two teams fought hard. While some exciting batting and bowling performances were witnessed in the final, a ‘spirit of cricket’ moment also grabbed the spotlight as India’s Robin Uthappa looked to help Pakistan’s Misbah-ul-Haq, who was struggling with an injury.
Misabh had to retire hurt for 18 runs from 15 balls in the 17th over Pakistan’s batting. Uthappa selflessly offered his help as the former Pakistan captain looked to head towards the dressing room.
Pakistan Champions, opting to bat first after winning the toss, posted a competitive total of 156 for 6 in their 20 overs.
Kamran Akmal (24 off 19) and Maqsood (21 off 12) gave the team a solid start, but regular wickets kept the scoring in check.
The standout performer was Shoaib Malik, who scored a crucial 41 off 36 balls, anchoring the innings. Captain Younis Khan failed to make a mark as he was clean bowled by Irfan Pathan for 7. The middle-order collapsed and Misbah-ul-Haq was retired hurt after a brisk 18, late contributions from Sohail Tanvir (19* off 9) ensured Pakistan reached a respectable score.
Indian bowlers, led by Anureet Singh who clinched three wickets with support from Vinay Kumar, Pawan Negi and Irfan Pathan (one wicket each) were instrumental in containing Pakistan’s batting lineup.
In response, India Champions started their run chase with intent. Despite losing Robin Uthappa (10) early, Ambati Rayudu’s explosive 50 off 30 balls set the foundation for the chase for the Men in Blue.
Suresh Raina too departed cheaply for 4 in the same over, helping Pakistan make a comeback. But a strong partnership between Rayudu and Gurkeerat Singh Maan (34 off 33) kept India on track.
Rayudu and Mann also departed in a space of 10 runs but the momentum stayed firmly in India’s favour with Yusuf Pathan’s blistering 30 off 16 balls before the latter was dismissed in the penultimate over.
With captain Yuvraj Singh (15*) and Irfan Pathan (5*) at the crease, India sealed the win, finishing at 159 for 5 in 19.1 overs, much to the delight of their fans.
Pakistan’s bowlers, despite their best efforts, couldn’t halt India’s march towards the target. Aamer Yamin was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3-0-29-2, supported by Sohail Tanvir and Sohail Khan, who took one wicket each.
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