In an enthralling clash at the State Bank Stadium, the Challengers emerged victorious with a thrilling seven-run win over table toppers Dynamites. This marked Challengers’ second consecutive win in the one-day phase of the tournament, while it was the first defeat for Dynamites, setting up a final showdown between the two teams on Sunday, 4 June at the same venue.
After being put into bat, the Challengers, led by Omaima Sohail, managed to post a total of 160 for seven in their allotted 45 overs. Experienced right-handed opener Javeria Khan played a crucial innings, scoring 83 off 126 balls, including six boundaries. The standout partnership of the innings was between Javeria and Fareeha Mehmood, who contributed 29 runs from 50 deliveries. The pair added 75 runs for the fifth wicket. Nashra Sundhu was the most successful bowler for Dynamites, taking two wickets for 25 runs from her nine overs.
In response, Dynamites’ opening pair of Khadija Chishti and captain Sidra Amin provided a solid start with a 43-run partnership. However, after the dismissal of Khadija, Dynamites began losing wickets at regular intervals. Left-arm spinner Saima Malik proved to be a vital force for Challengers, dismissing both Khadija and Aima Saleem. Sidra Amin and all-rounder Aliya Riaz then combined for a 26-run partnership for the third wicket. However, once Sidra was dismissed, Dynamites struggled to maintain their momentum, losing the remaining seven wickets for just 79 runs. Aliya fought valiantly, scoring 61 off 76 deliveries, but her efforts were in vain.
Challengers’ Saima Malik and off-spinner Noreen Yaqoob were the key wicket-takers, claiming three wickets each. Omaima Sohail, also an off-spinner, contributed with two wickets for 28 runs. The Dynamites were eventually bowled out for 153 in 40.3 overs.
With the conclusion of the round matches in the one-day phase, Dynamites finished at the top of the table with three wins out of four matches. Challengers secured the second spot with two wins out of four, while Blasters, led by Muneeba Ali, ended in third place with one win from four matches.
In recognition of her match-winning innings, Javeria Khan was awarded the Player of the Match.
Scores in Brief:
Challengers beat Dynamites by seven runs
Challengers: 160-7 in 45 overs (Javeria Khan 83, Fareeha Mehmood 29; Nashra Sundhu 2-25)
Dynamites: 153 all out in 40.3 overs (Aliya Riaz 61, Sidra Amin 36; Noreen Yaqoob 3-21, Saima Malik 3-29, Omaima Sohail 2-28)
Player of the Match: Javeria Khan (Challengers)
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