RAWALPINDI: The Champions T20 Cup began with a thrilling match as Markhors defeated the Lions by four wickets in a thrilling encounter at the Pindi Cricket Stadium.
After being asked to bat first, the Lions were restricted to 150/7 in their 20 overs.
Mohammad Awais Zafar was the standout player, remaining unbeaten on 40 runs off 34 balls, which included five boundaries.
Other notable contributions came from Hasan Nawaz (22 off 13 balls), wicketkeeper-batsman Rohail Nazir (16 off 15 balls) and captain Imam ul Haq (13 off 12 balls).
In the bowling department, Markhors’ Saad Masood, Sarwar Afridi and Nisar Ahmed were the stars, taking two wickets each. Imran Jr also made his mark with a single wicket.
During the chase, Markhors demonstrated complete dominance with the bat, chasing down the target in 19 overs, finishing at 154/6.
Captain Iftikhar Ahmed played a crucial role, scoring an unbeaten 42 off 34 balls, including a boundary and two sixes.
He was well supported by Saad Masood, who contributed a quickfire 26 off 16 balls, with a boundary and two sixes.
Fakhar Zaman also played a solid knock, scoring 28 off 25 balls, including three boundaries and a six.
The Lions’ bowling attack fought valiantly, with Mohammad Salman impressing by taking three wickets.
Shahid Aziz and Aamer Yamin also contributed, taking a wicket each, but it was not enough to stop the Markhors.
Saad Masood was named the best player on the match for his outstanding all-round performance.
