Pak, SL off to great start in T20 Blind WC

A view of the Pakistan versus South Africa match in the 4th Blind Cricket World Cup in Lahore on Saturday. PHOTO: APP

The 4th T20 Blind Cricket World Cup 2024, organised by the Pakistan Blind Cricket Council (PBCC), kicked off with thrilling matches as Pakistan and Sri Lanka claimed victories on the opening day.

At the Ghani Institute Cricket Ground in DHA, Pakistan convincingly defeated South Africa.

Batting first after winning the toss, South Africa posted 129 runs for seven wickets in their 20 overs. Lesedi Lesufi scored 24, while Edrich Ter Haa contributed 17. For Pakistan, Babar Ali picked up two wickets.

In reply, Pakistan chased down the target in just 10.3 overs with two wickets down. Opener Naimatullah led the charge with an explosive 59 off 31 balls, including nine fours and a six, while Zafar contributed 33 runs. Talha, a debutant from the B3 category, also featured in the match.

In the second game at Saeed Sports City, Sri Lanka secured a commanding 70-run victory over Nepal.

After being invited to bat, Sri Lanka amassed 195 for four in 20 overs. Opener Damith Sandaruwan smashed the first century of the World Cup, remaining unbeaten on 100, supported by Maduwantha's 23 runs.

Nepal, in response, managed 125 for 8 in their allotted overs. Durga Datta scored 24, while Naresh added 23 to their total.

On Sunday, Sri Lanka will face Afghanistan at the Ghani Institute Cricket Ground, while Bangladesh will take on Nepal at Saeed Sports City.

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