Pakistan Champions Thrash Australia by 10 Wickets to Seal Semifinal Spot
Pakistan Champions stormed into the semifinals of the World Championship of Legends with a dominant 10-wicket win over Australia Champions. Saeed Ajmal starred with a six-wicket haul, while Sharjeel Khan and Sohaib Maqsood made light work of a modest chase, helping their side wrap things up in under 8 overs.
In a one-sided affair, Australia Champions collapsed for just 74 runs in 11.5 overs. Pakistan’s bowlers, especially Saeed Ajmal, completely outclassed them. Ajmal bowled with great rhythm and variety, finishing with outstanding figures of 6 for 16 in just 3.5 overs. His spell included three wickets in his opening over, setting the tone early.
Imad Wasim supported brilliantly with 2 for 11 in 3 overs, while Sohail Tanvir chipped in with 1 for 8. Only Ben Dunk (26 off 14) showed some resistance, but the rest of the lineup failed to cope with Pakistan’s spin attack. The Aussies lost wickets regularly and looked out of sorts from the start.
Pakistan’s Run Chase
Needing just 75 runs for victory, Pakistan Champions began with confidence. Openers Sharjeel Khan and Sohaib Maqsood batted with intent, keeping the pressure on Australia’s bowlers. Sharjeel remained unbeaten on 32 from 23 balls, while Maqsood played a steady knock of 28* from 26 balls.
They completed the chase in just 7.5 overs, winning with a massive 73 balls to spare. The Australian bowling lacked discipline, highlighted by a horror over from John Hastings that went for 20 runs, including 12 wides and a no-ball.
Player of the Match: Saeed Ajmal
Saeed Ajmal was named Player of the Match for his magical spell. He credited his coach and physio for getting him match-ready after a short injury layoff. Ajmal revealed he had only a few days of practice but felt motivated due to the team’s injury crisis. His six-wicket haul was a reminder of his class, deceiving batters with flight and turn like his prime days.
Captain’s Comments
Shoaib Malik, captain of Pakistan Champions, said the win brought smiles all around. He praised Ajmal’s comeback and called his spell youthful and full of energy. Malik also acknowledged the role of seamers who set the tone before the spinners took over.
Brett Lee, Australia’s captain, admitted it wasn’t their best day. He urged his team to forget this performance and focus on the semifinal against South Africa. Lee also confirmed there were no injury concerns and that his side would aim to bounce back.
Semifinal Picture
With this win, Pakistan Champions finish at the top of the table and secure their semifinal berth. They now await the result of the India Champions vs West Indies Champions clash to find out their opponent. If India win big, a high-voltage India-Pakistan semifinal could be on the cards.
Meanwhile, Australia Champions will face South Africa Champions in the second semifinal. Despite the defeat, they had already secured qualification before this match.
This was a clinical all-round display from the Pakistan Champions, dismantling the Aussies in under two hours. With strong bowling depth and confident openers, they look in red-hot form heading into the knockouts.
Also read this : https://cric92.com/latest/kamran-akmal-and-ab-de-villiers-shine-with-centuries-in-wcl/