Rawalpindi, Pakistan: The Rawalpindi Physical Disability (PD) cricket team triumphed in the final of the SAF National Physical Disability T20 Cricket Championship Grade-2, securing a commanding 70-run victory over Quetta Bolan PD. The final match was held at the Army Cricket Ground, Rawalpindi.
Organized by the Pakistan Physical Disability Cricket Association (PPDCA) with support from the Shahid Afridi Foundation (SAF) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the tournament highlighted the growing impact of inclusive cricket in the country.
Final Match Highlights
Due to rain, the final was shortened to 15 overs per side. Quetta Bolan PD captain Abdul Hadi won the toss and opted to bowl. Rawalpindi PD responded with an explosive batting display, scoring 190 runs without losing a wicket.
The star of the match, Mohammad Arsalan, smashed an unbeaten 115 off just 57 balls, including 16 fours and 2 sixes. His powerful performance made him the top scorer of the tournament and left the audience in awe.
Quetta’s Response and Notable Performances
Chasing a steep target, Quetta Bolan PD managed 120 runs for 5 wickets. Siraj Khan played a fighting knock of 79 off 45 balls, hitting 7 fours and 6 sixes. Amir Habib added 28 runs, but the team fell short against Rawalpindi’s strong bowling lineup.
Awards and Recognition Ceremony
Following the final, an award ceremony honored the players’ achievements. National cricketer Mehran Mumtaz and respected coach Sabih Azhar presented the trophies.
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Rawalpindi PD captain Kashif Ahmed lifted the winner’s trophy.
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Abdul Hadi received the runner-up trophy on behalf of Quetta Bolan PD.
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Mohammad Arsalan was named Man of the Match and Best Batsman.
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Abdul Basit received the Best Bowler award.
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Abdullah Khan was recognized as the Best Fielder.
Praise from Cricketing Figures
Both Mehran Mumtaz and Sabih Azhar praised Rawalpindi’s performance and applauded head coach Syed Rafi Hashmi for his leadership. They commended the dedication shown by the disability cricketers, highlighting their role in inspiring the nation.
Key figures present included:
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Aslam Barich – PPDCA Regional Head for Balochistan
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Javed Ashraf – Lahore and Sialkot Regional Head
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Khurshid Butt – Manager of the Rawalpindi Region Team
A New Standard in Inclusive Cricket
The championship showcased resilience, skill, and sportsmanship. Players like Mohammad Arsalan set a new benchmark for future tournaments, reinforcing the potential of Pakistan’s disability cricket talent.
This event not only celebrated individual excellence but also strengthened the platform for inclusive sports development in Pakistan.
