Pakistan Champions suffers first defeat against South Africa

BIRMINGHAM: South Africa Champions dealt Pakistan Champions their first defeat in the ongoing World Championship of Legends 2024, winning by 9 wickets on Wednesday.

In the 13th T20 match at Birmingham’s iconic Edgbaston Stadium in the UK, undefeated Pakistan Champions put up a strong fight but ultimately succumbed to Jacques Kallis-led South Africans.

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Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first. The Men in Green set a target of 210 runs for South Africa. Continuing his impressive form from previous matches in the tournament, Sharjeel Khan top-scored with a brilliant 72 runs.

Seasoned all-rounder Shoaib Malik contributed a rapid half-century with 51 runs. Meanwhile, Sohaib Maqsood added 24 runs to the total, while Abdul Razzaq scored 25 runs.

Pakistan Champions concluded their innings at 210 runs with a loss of four wickets in 20 overs.

In response, South Africa’s batting duo of Jacques Snyman and Sarel Erwee orchestrated a phenomenal partnership to chase down the target. Sarel Erwee anchored the innings superbly, scoring a century with 104 runs off just 56 balls.

Jacques Snyman’s aggressive batting display included multiple 4s and 6s, accumulating an unbeaten 82 runs. Together, they guided South Africa to achieve the target of 210 runs in just 18.3 overs, finishing at 214/1.

Pakistan’s bowlers faced a tough challenge containing South Africa’s onslaught, with Sohail Khan managing the solitary wicket.

Overall, the match at Edgbaston Stadium witnessed an impressive display of batting prowess from both teams. It culminated in a victory for South Africa Champions over previously undefeated Pakistan Champions.

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Despite the setback, Pakistan Champions has dominated throughout the tournament, securing a spot in the semifinals by winning their first four matches consecutively.