The Markhors launched their Champions One Day Cup 2024 campaign in emphatic fashion, securing a dominant 160-run victory over the Panthers at the Iqbal Stadium on Thursday (September 12). The win not only highlighted the team’s overall superiority but also featured a breathtaking display of athleticism from Mohammad Rizwan, whose spectacular catch to dismiss Mubasir Khan was the standout moment of the match. Rizwan’s brilliance behind the stumps, combined with his contributions with the bat, helped the Markhors set an insurmountable target, leaving the Panthers struggling to keep pace.

Mohammad Rizwan’s fielding heroics steal the spotlight

While the Markhors controlled much of the game, it was Rizwan who captured everyone’s attention with his outstanding fielding. Having already impressed with an early catch to dismiss Haider Ali, Rizwan’s true brilliance came to the fore in the 23rd over. Facing a short-pitched delivery from Akif Javed, Mubasir could only manage a top-edge that floated dangerously in front of the stumps. Rizwan reacted instantly, darting forward with the speed and precision of a predator on the hunt, before launching into a full-length dive to complete a stunning catch. His acrobatic effort not only sent Mubasir back to the pavilion for 33 off 31 balls but also electrified the crowd and set the tone for the rest of the match.

Here’s the video:

And then there was a 7⃣th wicket…

Akif Javed’s 3rd in the innings! 🔥#DiscoveringChampions #MaarMarkhors pic.twitter.com/BsoLuc6K5P

— UMT Markhors (@UMTMarkhors) September 12, 2024

Rizwan’s valuable contribution with the bat for the Markhors

In addition to his fielding masterclass, Rizwan proved to be a vital contributor with the bat. His composed knock of 45 off 57 deliveries provided the backbone for the Markhors’ imposing total of 347/6. Though dismissed lbw by Mohammad Hasnain, Rizwan’s innings was critical in setting the stage for Iftikhar Ahmed and Muhammad Abdul Samad to launch their late assault. Their explosive half-centuries ensured that the Markhors posted a daunting total, one that ultimately proved far too much for the Panthers to chase down.

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The Panthers crumble under pressure

Chasing 348 was always going to be a tall order for the Panthers, and their innings began on a shaky note with the early dismissal of Saim Ayub for 20. Despite a spirited effort from Amad Butt, who fought valiantly with a knock of 72 off 84 balls, the rest of the lineup failed to offer significant resistance. The Panthers’ middle and lower order collapsed in dramatic fashion, with five batters falling for single-digit scores, including skipper Shadab Khan, who managed just 4. With wickets tumbling at regular intervals, the Panthers found themselves reeling, unable to build any meaningful partnerships.

Akif Javed and Naseem Shah star with the ball

On the bowling front, the Markhors’ pace duo of Javed and Naseem Shah played pivotal roles in dismantling the Panthers’ batting order. Both pacers bowled with precision and aggression, each claiming three wickets to decimate the opposition. Akif’s short-ball strategy was particularly effective, while Naseem’s pace and accuracy proved too much for the Panthers’ batters. Amad Butt’s valiant resistance aside, the Panthers’ innings unraveled quickly, and once he was dismissed, their hopes of mounting a comeback faded completely. Bowled out for just 187, the Panthers were handed a crushing defeat, while the Markhors celebrated a comprehensive 160 runs triumph.

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