CRICKET
PSL 2023: Azam Khan’s power hitting sinks Karachi Kings
Islamabad United established a new record for their highest chase in the HBL Pakistan Super League with a stunning victory over Karachi Kings.
Azam Khan’s unbeaten 72 off just 41 balls, which included eight fours and four sixes was the highlight of Islamabad’s innings.
Azam helped chase down Karachi Kings’ 201 with six wickets and four balls to spare.
This was the first time the two-time champions had chased down a target of 200 or more.
Khan joined the fray when Rassie van der Dussen was dismissed in the eighth over, with Islamabad United needing him to showcase his extraordinary repertoire of strokes.
After settling in, Khan went on to stitch a brilliant 125-run partnership with Faheem Ashraf, who played a supporting role with 41 off 32 balls.
Despite Mohammad Amir removing Colin Munro in the first over, Islamabad United had a solid start to the run chase.
Alex Hales smashed 34 off 16 and added 50 runs for the second wicket with van der Dussen before being bowled on the last ball of the Powerplay by Aamer Yamin.
When Tabraiz Shamsi bowled van der Dussen two balls later, it rang alarm bells for Islamabad United.
However, Khan and Ashraf negated the threat cautiously before launching a brilliant counterattack.
Karachi Kings were rescued and then dragged over 200 by another outstanding innings from Imad Wasim, the team’s captain.
He blasted 92 off 54 balls, hitting 11 fours and two sixes.
Imad’s 99 runs partnership with Muhammad Irfan Khan, who scored 30 off 20 balls was the backbone of the innings.
In the process, Imad became only the second batter in the HBL PSL 8 to cross the 300-run mark.
Imad had to walk to the middle with five Powerplay balls remaining as Karachi Kings lost three wickets for 53.
Firing cameos by Tayyab Tahir (19 off eight) and Adam Rossington’s 20 off 16 made sure Karachi Kings scored at a respectable run rate despite the fall of wickets in the first six overs.
Shoaib Malik was the only batter to fall in the middle overs when he was bowled by a beautiful delivery from Faheem that nipped back into the right-hander.
Islamabad United had to wait till the penultimate over for the next wicket, which came off a brilliant acrobatic effort by Hasan Ali at the boundary straight down the ground.
Irfan launched Tom Curran high into the night sky, and the fast bowler caught the ball diving backwards.
But such was his presence of mind that he relayed the catch to van der Dussen before coming into contact with the rope or crossing it.
With this victory, Islamabad United now have four wins from six matches, while Karachi Kings have lost six of their eight matches.
Scores
Karachi Kings 201-5, 20 overs (Imad Wasim 92 not out, Muhammad Irfan Khan 30, Adam Rossington 20; Tom Curran 2-43)
Islamabad United 204-4, 19.2 overs (Azam Khan 72 not out, Faheem Ashraf 41, Alex Hales 34, Rassie van der Dussen 22)
Player of the match – Azam Khan (Islamabad United)
CRICKET
Mohammad Rizwan Faces Backlash for Underwhelming Knock in Pakistan’s Loss to South Africa
Mohammad Rizwan has come under heavy fire for his performance during Pakistan’s loss to South Africa in a high-stakes match. Critics described his innings as lackluster, accusing him of playing a “shameless” and “criminal” knock that failed to meet the demands of the situation. His inability to accelerate scoring when required drew ire from fans and analysts alike, with many questioning his intent and decision-making under pressure.
While Rizwan’s cautious approach ensured some stability, it proved inadequate against South Africa’s aggressive game plan. His inability to shift gears in critical moments ultimately hurt Pakistan’s chances, and his performance sparked a broader debate about his role and strategy in the team’s batting order. Some commentators were particularly scathing, questioning how Rizwan could reflect on his effort given the circumstances.
The incident has added to the scrutiny of Pakistan’s overall performance in the tournament, with many demanding better strategies and execution from key players. Rizwan, regarded as a pivotal figure in the lineup, now faces the challenge of responding to the criticism and delivering under pressure in future matches.
CRICKET
Karnali Strengthen Playoff Aspirations; Lumbini Break Winless Streak
The Nepal Premier League (NPL) witnessed dramatic turnarounds as Karnali Yaks secured their third consecutive victory and Lumbini Lions registered their maiden win. Karnali cruised to a seven-wicket win over Pokhara Avengers, powered by William Bosisto’s brilliant bowling performance, claiming 6 wickets for 28 runs. This victory places the Yaks in a strong position for playoffs.
Meanwhile, the Lumbini Lions finally ended their winless run by defeating Chitwan Rhinos by 33 runs. Rohit Paudel starred with an outstanding all-round performance, scoring 80 runs and taking 4 wickets for just 17 runs. The Lions’ bowlers complemented Paudel’s efforts, restricting the Rhinos and ensuring a much-needed morale boost.
Both results have shaken up the league standings as the tournament heads toward a tense conclusion. With Karnali firming their playoff prospects and Lumbini gaining momentum, fans can expect high-intensity action in the upcoming matches.
BGT
Andy Roberts Declares Mohammed Shami as India’s Best Bowler
West Indies cricket legend Andy Roberts has lauded Mohammed Shami as India’s most skilled pacer, emphasizing his superiority in effectiveness and consistency over others, including Jasprit Bumrah. While acknowledging Bumrah’s ability to claim crucial wickets, Roberts expressed that Shami’s control, seam positioning, and adaptability under diverse conditions set him apart.
Roberts critiqued Mohammed Siraj, stating he has yet to reach the same level as Bumrah and Shami. He highlighted that Shami’s ability to relentlessly hit good lengths and extract movement makes him India’s standout bowler. He urged Indian cricket to focus more on nurturing such talent for long-term success in international cricket.
Roberts’ observations offer a fresh perspective on India’s pace attack dynamics, sparking debates among cricket fans worldwide.
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