In a thrilling encounter at the National Bank Stadium, Lahore Blues unleashed a commanding performance, securing their maiden win in the Super Eight stage of the National T20 Cup 2023-24, overpowering Rawalpindi by a substantial 64-run margin.
Choosing to bat first, Lahore Blues laid a solid foundation as openers Umar Siddiq and Imran Butt set the stage with a robust partnership of 74 runs. Siddiq’s aggressive 37 and Butt’s equally impactful 39 provided the perfect launching pad for their team.
Despite a brief struggle in the middle overs, losing three quick wickets, skipper Hussain Talat and Qasim Akram orchestrated a spectacular revival. Their unbeaten 85-run partnership elevated the innings, propelling Lahore Blues to a formidable total of 166-3 in their allotted 20 overs.
Rawalpindi, in response, encountered early turmoil, succumbing to a precarious position with three dismissals in the powerplay. Haider Ali’s valiant effort of 23 tried to steady the innings but fell victim to Kashif Bhatti’s precise delivery.
Rawalpindi’s hopes dimmed further as Mubasir Khan contributed 24, but the batting unit collapsed under the relentless bowling attack of Nisar Ahmad. Ahmad’s breathtaking spell of five wickets for just five runs, including a sensational hat-trick, dismantled Rawalpindi, as they crumbled to a mere 102 all out in 17.4 overs.
Ahmad’s mesmerizing performance rightly earned him the Player of the Match accolade, displaying exceptional death overs bowling prowess that crippled Rawalpindi’s batting lineup.
The combined efforts of leg-spinner Usman Qadir, along with Umaid Asif and Kashif Bhatti, further intensified the pressure on Rawalpindi, securing crucial wickets to seal Lahore Blues’ resounding triumph.
With this convincing win, Lahore Blues have not only showcased their dominance but also signaled their intent to compete fiercely in the ongoing T20 Cup, setting the stage for further riveting clashes in the tournament.
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