Hammad Aziz
Karachi – Pakistan made a strong start to the four-match Wheelchair T20 series on Monday, defeating Afghanistan by five wickets in the opening clash at the UBL Sports Complex.
Chasing 146, the hosts crossed the finish line in just 15.5 overs, driven by Usama Tariq’s 40-ball 66 and an unbeaten 37 from Muhammad Fayyaz. Contributions from Ahmed (16), Misal (5), skipper Muhammad Zeeshan (5), and Mubeen (6) ensured Pakistan’s chase never faltered.
Earlier, Afghanistan opted to bat first and were bowled out for 145 in 19.4 overs. Asif top-scored with 28, Raheem added 26, and Zar Alam chipped in with 13. Pakistan’s bowlers dominated, with Imran Arain claiming five wickets, while Fayyaz bagged three and Ayub one. Arain’s all-round brilliance earned him the Player of the Match award.
Speaking after the match, Pakistan captain Muhammad Zeeshan expressed pride at hosting the series:
“After 20 years, we are finally hosting international wheelchair cricket on home soil. Later this year, Pakistan will also stage the Wheelchair Asia Cup featuring six teams.”
Afghanistan skipper Mansoor Adil lauded the series as vital preparation for the Asia Cup, adding that Pakistan’s hospitality had been “excellent.”
The second T20 will be played on Tuesday at 7:30 PM, also at the UBL Sports Complex in Karachi.
