Karachi (Sports Reporter) – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) Physical Disability Team emerged victorious in the Quadrangular PDT Twenty20 Cup 2024, defeating Punjab PD by 16 runs in a thrilling final at the Rashid Latif Cricket Academy Ground. The tournament showcased remarkable performances and celebrated the spirit of cricket among differently-abled athletes.
The final began with a recitation of the Holy Quran by Ikramullah, followed by the national anthem, setting a patriotic tone for the match. Batting first, KPK PD posted an impressive total of 166 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 20 overs. Muhammad Noman top-scored with a fluent 33 runs off 26 balls, including 4 fours and 2 sixes. Matlub Qureshi contributed 28 runs, while Rehmatullah played a crucial unbeaten knock of 29 runs off 20 balls, smashing 4 fours and 2 sixes. Punjab’s Usama Arshad picked up 2 wickets.
In reply, Punjab PD fought valiantly but fell short, bowled out for 153 runs in 18 overs. Huzaifa Khan shone with an aggressive 45 off 18 balls, hitting 3 fours and 4 sixes, while Mohammad Arsalan added 36 runs off 17 balls with 3 fours. KPK’s medium pacer Hammad Shaukat stole the spotlight with a devastating bowling spell, claiming 4 wickets for 29 runs. Tanveer Ahmed and Asif Kachhi chipped in with two wickets each, sealing the victory for KPK.
Post-Match Ceremony
The event concluded with an elaborate prize distribution ceremony attended by special guests, including former Test cricketers Tauseef Ahmed, Arshad Khan, and officials like PPDCA President Imran Balwani and General Secretary Amiruddin Ansari. Senior GM of National Stadium Karachi and other dignitaries also graced the occasion.
KPK’s captain Zubair Saleem proudly lifted the championship trophy, while Punjab’s captain Abdullah received the runner-up trophy. Individual accolades included:
Shahid Wattoo: Valuable Batsman of the Cup
Abdul Basit: Valuable Bowler of the Cup
Tanveer Ahmed: Most Valuable Player of the Cup
Honorary shields were also awarded to match officials and guests for their contributions.
Preparation for International Stage
The tournament, featuring four provincial teams, served as preparation for the upcoming international event in Sri Lanka this January. Cricket enthusiasts hailed the efforts of the PPDCA for providing a platform to showcase the talent and resilience of players with physical disabilities.
The Quadrangular PDT Twenty20 Cup 2024 not only highlighted the competitive spirit of the teams but also underscored the inclusivity and unity cricket brings to all.
