Pakistan defeat UAE in Over-40 T20 World Cup

Humayun Farhat smashed 153 off 55 balls with 18 fours and 10 sixes

The third day of the IMC Over-40s T20 World Cup delivered high-octane cricket across three grounds of Karachi, with Pakistan extending their unbeaten run by defeating the United Arab Emirates by 117 runs at the National Bank Stadium. 

The hosts dominated the contest from the start, posting an imposing 284 for 3, powered by a spectacular innings from Humayun Farhat, who smashed 153 off 55 balls with 18 fours and 10 sixes. 

His explosive knock earned him the Player of the Match award. Vice-captain Fawad Alam continued his fine form by scoring his second consecutive half-century, contributing 71 from 34 balls, including six boundaries and four sixes.

UAE, while attempting to chase the towering target, were restricted to 167 for 7. 

Hassan Raza offered resistance with a fighting 45, but the required momentum never materialised as Pakistan maintained full control throughout the innings.

At Southend Club Cricket Stadium, Rest of the World defeated Sri Lanka by 23 runs after setting a target of 133 for 7 and bowling Sri Lanka out for 110. At the NBP Sports Complex, Australia overcame Rest of the Gulf by 19 runs, successfully defending their total of 149 for 5 as the opposition managed at 130 for 6 in their allotted quota of overs.

South Africa delivered one of the most dominant performances of the competition so far, defeating West Indies by 10 wickets. After bowling out West Indies for 116, South Africa chased down the target within nine overs without losing a wicket. Stephan Joubert scored an unbeaten 66 off 29 balls, while Willy Hantam added 45 from 25 balls to seal a commanding win.

In another fixture at the NBP venue, Hong Kong defeated Canada by five wickets. Canada were bowled out for 105 in 19.2 overs and Hong Kong successfully chased the target in 19.1 overs with five wickets in hand. 

At Southend Club, the United States recorded a 33-run victory over Zimbabwe. 

USA posted 181 for 7, driven by a standout knock of 88 by Zeshan Muhammad and later restricted Zimbabwe to 148 for 8. 

US Consul General Goodman cheers Team USA to win

The US Consul General Charles Goodman attended the USA vs Sri Lanka Over-40s T20 World Cup match on November 23, at National Bank Stadium in Karachi to support Team USA and celebrate the unifying power of sports. He joined more than 500 U.S. government-supported English Access students from throughout Sindh Province to experience the excitement of one of Pakistan's most popular sports.

Consul General Goodman joined veteran sports reporters for a pre-game discussion and delivered live commentary from the stadium’s box. Following Team USA’s victory, Consul General Goodman congratulated the players, presented trophies, and commended the Sri Lankan team’s efforts.  He noted that sporting events like these foster stronger connections and bring people together.

The International Masters Cricket Over-40s T20 Cricket World Cup brings together 12 international teams competing in 42 matches across five venues in Karachi from November 21 to December 1. Organized by the Pakistan Veterans Cricket Association, the tournament reunites former test and first-class players.

Team USA, led by Captain Muhammad Farrukh and Vice-Captain Zeshan Muhammad, continues to elevate cricket’s profile in the United States. Team USA’s participation also contributes to the United States’ “Mega Decade of Sports,” including the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, and enhances U.S. cricket’s visibility on the global stage.

Consul General Goodman emphasized that “Sports have the power to unite people across borders, cultures, and communities. The U.S. Mission in Pakistan proudly supports programs that connect youth and strengthen partnerships, as seen in USA–Sri Lanka cricket match.