WCL 2024: Pakistan Champions secure final spot after beating West Indies by 20 runs

In an exciting first semi-final of the World Championship of Legends 2024, Pakistan Champions emerged victorious against West Indies Champions by 20 runs at the County Ground, Northampton.

The thrilling encounter saw Pakistan Champions set a formidable total of 198 for 8 in their 20 overs, with notable performances from Aamer Yamin and Kamran Akmal. In response, West Indies Champions were bowled out for 178 in 19.5 overs.

The chase was spearheaded by Rayad Emrit's explosive 29 off 9 balls but fell short due to a disciplined bowling effort from Pakistan.

Sohail Khan’s impressive final over sealed the win, as he claimed the crucial wickets of Jerome Taylor and Sulieman Benn.

Shoaib Malik’s two wickets in an over and Wahab Riaz’s timely strikes kept West Indies in check. Despite a valiant effort by Ashley Nurse and Daren Sammy, the West Indies Champions could not maintain the momentum required to chase down the target.

Winning the toss, West Indies opted to field, a decision that saw immediate success as Jerome Taylor dismissed Sharjeel Khan for a duck in the first over.

Fidel Edwards was lethal with the ball, taking 3 wickets for just 24 runs in his four overs, including key dismissals of Sohaib Maqsood and Shoaib Malik.

Earlier, Kamran Akmal provided stability early on with a brisk 46 off 31 balls, setting a solid foundation. Younis Khan supported him with a crucial 65 off 45 balls. However, a series of quick wickets in the middle overs disrupted their momentum.

The highlight of the innings came in the final overs when Aamer Yamin played a blistering knock of 40 from just 18 balls. His innings included three sixes and two fours, propelling Pakistan Champions to a competitive total. Sohail Tanvir also contributed a quick 33 off 17 balls before being run out.