During the Champions One-Day Cup 2024 Qualifier, fans were treated to some remarkable performances, including a breathtaking shot from Naseem Shah. The match played between Markhors and Panthers, had plenty of drama, but it was Naseem’s spectacular six off Saim Ayub that stole the spotlight, adding a highlight to an already intense game.
Naseem Shah’s majestic six
The moment came in the 32nd over of the Markhors’ first innings. Panthers’ bowler Saim tossed one up just outside off, only for Naseem to step down the wicket and unleash an elegant, inside-out shot over extra cover. The ball soared into the air, with the umpire calling for a replay to confirm whether it had fully cleared the fence. As the crowd held its breath, the replay confirmed what everyone suspected: the ball had indeed cleared the boundary for a majestic six, leaving fans and commentators in awe of Naseem’s flawless execution.
Here is the video:
𝑺𝒉𝒂𝒉-𝐚𝐚𝐧𝐚 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐭! 🫡#DiscoveringChampions | #BahriaTownChampionsCup | #UMTMarkhorsvLakeCityPanthers pic.twitter.com/uVKQziRHGq
— Bahria Town Champions Cup (@championscuppcb) September 24, 2024
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Saim Ayub’s brilliant bowling display
Despite this standout shot, the Markhors struggled throughout their innings, managing to post only 137 runs before being bowled out in the 36th over. Salman Agha stood out as the top scorer for his side, crafting a gritty 52 off 81 balls. However, none of the other Markhors’ batters could make a significant impact, and the team failed to build any substantial partnerships.
The real star of the first innings was Saim, who showcased his all-round talent. While he conceded a six to Naseem, Saim more than made up for it with his stunning bowling performance. In just six overs, the left-arm spinner took a five-wicket haul (5/24), delivering at an impressive economy rate of 4.00. His ability to consistently find the right lengths and deceive the batters proved instrumental in keeping the Markhors to a modest total.
Panthers’ comfortable chase
Chasing a target of 138, the Panthers made light work of the run chase, reaching 143/3 in just 23.4 overs with 158 balls to spare. Usman Khan led the charge with a blistering knock, smashing 54 off just 26 balls, including five boundaries and four towering sixes. His explosive innings ensured that Panthers never looked in trouble, dominating the Markhors’ bowling attack.
Saim continued to shine in the second innings, contributing with the bat as well. His composed 33 off 36 deliveries provided valuable support during the chase, further solidifying his status as a key player in the match.
With an emphatic 7-wicket victory, Panthers advanced to the next stage, comfortably cruising past Markhors with plenty of overs to spare. Usman’s aggressive knock and Saim’s all-round heroics were crucial in the win, as the Panthers showcased their dominance in all departments.
For his outstanding all-round performance, including a match-winning five-wicket haul and his valuable contribution with the bat, Saim was rightfully named the Man of the Match. His ability to deliver both with the ball and the bat was pivotal in Panthers’ commanding victory over the Markhors.
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