Pakistan Shaheens’ hopes of reaching the Top End T20 final were dashed as Adelaide Strikers defeated them by 30 runs in a high-octane semi-final clash on Sunday. The standout performance of the match came from Jake Winter, who scored a blistering century, propelling his team to victory.
After winning the toss, Pakistan Shaheens opted to bowl first. Adelaide Strikers posted a formidable total of 197 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs. Despite losing three early wickets with just 57 runs on the board, Winter’s powerful innings turned the game around. He smashed 104 runs off 8 sixes and 6 fours, dominating the Shaheens’ bowling attack. In one over, Winter struck 5 sixes off Faisal Akram, underlining his aggressive intent.
Winter was well supported by Harry Manenti, who contributed 52 runs, including 9 fours and a six. Together, they added 73 runs for the fourth wicket, laying the foundation for a strong total. Among the Shaheens’ bowlers, Abbas Afridi was the most successful, taking 3 wickets for 51 runs, while Faisal Akram picked up 2 wickets but was expensive, conceding 58 runs.
In response, Pakistan Shaheens struggled right from the start. By the fifth over, they were reeling at 33 for 4, with only captain Mohammad Haris managing to reach double figures with 19 runs. Usman Khan and Mubasir Khan provided some resistance, scoring 32 and 18 runs, respectively, but the early damage was too much to overcome.
The only bright spot in Shaheens’ innings was Abbas Afridi, who followed up his bowling performance with an explosive 54 off 3 sixes and 5 fours. His 60-run partnership for the eighth wicket with Arif Yaqoob brought some hope, but it wasn’t enough to chase down the target. Shaheens were bowled out for 167 in 18.1 overs.
Liam Scott was the pick of the bowlers for Adelaide Strikers, claiming 3 wickets for 44 runs, ensuring his team’s place in the final.
Scores in brief:
Adelaide Strikers: 197/5 in 20 overs (Jake Winter 104, Harry Manenti 52; Abbas Afridi 3/51, Faisal Akram 2/58)
Pakistan Shaheens: 167 all out in 18.1 overs (Abbas Afridi 54, Usman Khan 32; Liam Scott 3/44)
Result: Adelaide Strikers won by 30 runs.
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