In a thrilling culmination to the Pakistan Cup 2023-24, Peshawar emerged victorious, seizing their third national one-day cup title. Facing Karachi Whites in an intense final at Pindi Cricket Stadium, Peshawar showcased their prowess, ultimately claiming a resounding five-wicket victory and bagging a substantial cash prize of PKR 5 million.
The last time Peshawar triumphed in the national one-day title was during the 2016-17 season, where they secured a victory against the same formidable opponent at National Bank Stadium, Karachi, with an impressive margin of 124 runs.
Opting to bat first in conditions favoring fast bowlers, Karachi Whites started cautiously. However, the early departure of Habibullah in the eighth over, courtesy of Mohammad Imran’s left-arm pace, set the tone for Karachi’s innings. Saim Ayub, instrumental in the semi-final with a remarkable 95, fell victim to Imran’s prowess, departing after contributing valiantly. The top order’s collapse led to a string of dismissals, restricting Karachi Whites to a mere 103 all out in 31.2 overs. Imran and Mohammad Abbas Afridi shared the spoils, claiming seven wickets between them.
Chasing the modest target, Peshawar faced minimal obstacles, comfortably reaching the required total in just 17.2 overs, securing the title with five wickets in hand. Mohammad Haris stood out with a brisk 46 off 33 balls, leading Peshawar’s charge.
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The match’s unusual moment saw Sahibzada Farhan’s departure as he unintentionally dislodged the bails with his bat, resulting in a peculiar hit-wicket dismissal off Ghulam Mudassar. Nevertheless, Peshawar maintained their composure, securing the win with ease. Noman Ali was the most successful bowler for Karachi Whites, taking two wickets.
Amidst the thrilling final, individual accolades were bestowed upon standout performers. Haseebullah from Multan Region earned the prestigious Player of the Tournament and Best Wicket-Keeper awards, showcasing his prowess with 326 runs and 10 dismissals. Saim Ayub’s impressive 397 runs made him the Best Batter, while Zahid Mehmood (Multan Region) and Mohammad Abbas Afridi (Peshawar Region) jointly claimed the Best Bowler honors, each securing 15 wickets. Mohammad Imran’s impactful performance of 4-28 earned him the title of Player of the Final for Peshawar Region.
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