by: Aasif Sheikh:
In a dramatic turnaround, AS Academy snatched victory from the jaws of defeat in the second match of the SACF series against Mavericks, played on April 20th, 2024, at the RCL ground #1.
Winning the toss, AS Academy opted to bat first. Hamza (38) and Ahmed (18) provided a steady start, navigating a cautious powerplay. After Ahmed’s dismissal, Saud joined Hamza, and the duo consolidated the innings. Just as Hamza was finding his groove, he departed, paving the way for the explosive Fahad, a national player.
Fahad unleashed carnage, smashing 35 runs off just 19 deliveries before a brilliant catch by Saad Faman ended his fiery innings. With the score looking set to surpass 270, the responsibility fell upon captain Saad Shakir to provide a late flourish. Saud (31) chipped in with a valuable contribution before departing. Musair joined him, and together they pushed the total to a respectable 239 all out in 30 overs, averaging 8 runs per over.
Mavericks began their chase with early hiccups, losing Zain (12) and Daniyal (3) cheaply. Kaif (23) and Smarudh (28) offered some resistance, but the tide turned with the arrival of Fahad Munir.
Bowling with exceptional precision, Fahad ripped through the Mavericks’ top order, claiming a phenomenal 5 wickets for a mere 28 runs. He received excellent support from Saad (2 wickets) and Saud (2 wickets). Despite a valiant effort from Jivitesh (26), Zuned (20) and Saad (27) towards the end, the early damage proved too much for Mavericks. They fell short by 31 runs, handing AS Academy a crucial win.
The series now stands level at 1-1, setting the stage for a thrilling decider! With Fahad’s all-around brilliance (35 runs and 5 wickets) earning him the Man of the Match award, all eyes will be on him to repeat his heroics in the final encounter.
AS Academy – http://www.ascricacademy.com/ASCA/viewNews.do?newsId=249&clubId=1110
