In a thrilling match at the Zhejiang University of Technology Cricket Field in Hangzhou, China, Pakistan emerged victorious over Hong Kong, securing a commanding 68-run win during the 19th Asian Games Men’s Cricket Quarter Finals on Tuesday.
This impressive victory has propelled Pakistan into the spotlight as they advance to the second semi-final, set to take place on Friday, 06 October, where they will face Afghanistan.
Pakistan was entrusted with the task of setting a target after losing the toss, and they managed to post a formidable total of 160 runs on the scoreboard, largely thanks to an explosive batting performance by Aamir Jamal in the late stages of the innings.
Aamir, who stepped up to bat in the 17th over, delivered a stunning display, scoring 41 runs in just 16 balls, including four towering sixes and two well-timed boundaries.
Earlier in the innings, the partnership between the seasoned Asif Ali and debutant Arafat Minhas added valuable runs to Pakistan’s total, contributing 36 runs from 26 balls for the seventh wicket.
Asif, with 25 runs from 21 balls, and Arafat, with 25 runs from 16 balls, were the second-highest run-scorers for Pakistan.
Hong Kong showcased their bowling prowess, with Ayush Shukla impressively finishing the innings with four wickets, while Mohammad Ghazanfar claimed three wickets.
In response, Pakistan’s spinners showcased their prowess, firmly establishing control over the game. The Hong Kong batsmen found themselves entangled in the web spun by Arafat, Sufiyan Muqeem, Qasim Akram, and Khushdil Shah.
Khushdil Shah emerged as the star with the ball, securing three crucial wickets, while the remaining three spinners each grabbed two wickets. The highest run-scorer for Hong Kong was Babar Hayat, who contributed 29 runs from 27 balls, featuring three boundaries and two powerful sixes.
In summary, Pakistan clinched a resounding victory over Hong Kong by a margin of 68 runs.
Match Summary:
Pakistan triumphs over Hong Kong by 68 runs.
Pakistan Innings:
Pakistan scored 160 runs, all out, in 20 overs.
Aamir Jamal was the top scorer with 41 runs, followed by Arafat Minhas and Asif Ali, both contributing 25 runs each.
Ayush Shukla took 4 wickets, while Mohammad Ghazanfar secured 3 wickets for Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Innings:
Hong Kong managed to score 92 runs, all out, in 18.5 overs.
Babar Hayat was the highest scorer for Hong Kong, accumulating 29 runs.
Khushdil Shah took 3 wickets, Qasim Akram claimed 2, while Sufiyan Muqeem and Arafat Minhas each secured 2 wickets for Pakistan.
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