by: TN Media News Pakistan:
The Issy UK Sports Cricket Series delivered a gripping spectacle as AS Academy clinched a 2-0 series victory over ZAS Academy in a nail-biting contest, leaving cricket fans exhilarated and yearning for more.
Aayan’s Heroics and AS Academy’s Dominance: After winning the toss, AS Academy elected to bat first, setting the stage for an exhilarating display of batting prowess. Aayan Khan seized his opportunity to shine, playing a scintillating innings. His 44 runs off 23 balls, studded with eight boundaries, energized the stadium and laid a solid foundation. Saud supported the effort with a steady 20 runs, while Fahad Munir thrilled the crowd with an aggressive 38 off 21 deliveries, including five fours and a towering six. Ahmed Zia, adapting seamlessly to a lower-order role, contributed a crucial 27 off 25 balls. Following his century in the previous match, Sheeraz Ahmed continued his aggressive form, adding 29 off 16 balls. Fahad Zaffar’s quick 21 off 14 balls further bolstered AS Academy’s total, helping them post a formidable score of 202 runs.
ZAS Academy’s Grit and AS Academy’s Resolute Bowling: In their chase, ZAS Academy encountered early setbacks, with Shahzad falling to a brilliant yorker by Fahad Zaffar. However, Basit’s aggressive 83 off 52 balls, laced with twelve boundaries, kept the audience on edge and the chase alive. Despite Basit’s valiant efforts, which included his retirement hurt, and Hamayl’s unbeaten 60 off 47 balls, ZAS Academy ultimately fell short by 16 runs.
AS Academy’s bowlers played a pivotal role in clinching the victory. Fahad Zaffar, Fahad Munir, and Irtiza each took a wicket, while Sheeraz Ahmed tightened the grip with two key wickets, ensuring ZAS Academy could not reach the target.
Outstanding Performers and Series Highlights
Man of the Match: Aayan Khan (AS Academy)
Best Wicket-Taker: Fahad Munir (AS Academy) with 3 wickets
Best Batsman: Arham Atif (ZAS Academy)
Player of the Tournament: Sheeraz Ahmed (AS Academy)
The series showcased remarkable performances, featuring a total of 750 runs, 27 wickets, 80 fours, 3 sixes, 3 fifties, and 1 century. Hashir Sajjad’s maiden over was a standout moment that added to the excitement.
AS Academy’s captain, Aasif Sheikh, praised both teams for their spirited performances under challenging conditions. He extended his gratitude to Nadeem Babar, CEO of Riyadh Cricket Association, for his unwavering support in hosting the series.
As fans eagerly await the next showdown, the recent matches promise even greater drama and thrills, underscoring the vibrant and competitive spirit of the Issy UK Sports Cricket Series.
