Summary Ayyaz smashed two sixes and two fours in the second last over to change the fate of the game.
PESHAWAR (Dunya News) – Al Nujoom Risers defeated Al Wahda Hitters by six wickets in the thrilling final of the Zalmi Madrasa League that was attended by Javed Afridi, Mohammad Akram and Younis Khan among others.
“This is just a stepping stone for Peshawar Zalmi. We aim to take this initiative to other parts of Pakistan including Punjab, Balochistan and Sindh,” Zalmi Chairman Javed Afridi said.
“Peshawar Zalmi will be making pitches for them and also providing them with cricket equipment. Madrasa students deserve an equal opportunity to enter sports arenas and we will ensure this,” he added.
Zalmi head coach Mohammad Akram, congratulated the madrasa students and the winning team for playing an exceptional cricket throughout the tournament.
“There is no doubt about the talent that these madrasa students possess. If given the proper opportunity, they too can represent Pakistan at the national level,” he said.
Mohammad Akram appreciated the efforts of Chairman Javed Afridi and also thanked Younis Khan for coming all the way from Karachi to witness the solid final.
“These initiatives need to happen more frequently as sports is a platform that can bring everyone together and also promote harmony among people,” said Younis Khan, who was the chief guest.
“Zalmi Madrasa League is an initiative that has set an example for others. Not only has it provided the madrasa students a cricket platform but has also promoted a positive image of Pakistan,” he added.
The final was a thrilling encounter between the two sides. Al Wahda Hitters chose to bat first and set up a total of 104 runs for the loss of 3 wickets. Adil Nawaz scored 42 runs with Jalil scoring 20 runs. Haris and Luqman both picked up one wicket each.
In reply, Al Nujoom Risers lost early wickets but came back in the game with a sensational knock of 41 by Ayyaz who remained unbeaten. Umar scored 28 runs to help them get closer to the target. Al Nujoom Risers needed 40 runs in the last two overs. With Al Haq Smashers being the favorite at that point,
Ayyaz smashed two sixes and two fours in the second last over to change the fate of the game.
After hitting a six on the second last ball of the innings, he brought the trophy home by taking a single on the last ball. Al Nujoom Risers with a total of 105/4 won the final by six wickets. Taimoor took two wickets for 22 runs and Atiq bagged in one wicket for 13 runs.
