Karachi/Rawalpindi (Sports Reporter) – The Rawalpindi Physical Disability Team claimed the title of the Shahid Afridi Foundation (SAF) National Physical Disability T20 Cricket Championship Grade-2 by defeating Quetta Bolan PD by 70 runs in the final match, held at the Army Cricket Ground in Rawalpindi. The tournament was organized by the Pakistan Physical Disability Cricket Association (PPDCA) with support from the SAF and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
The final, affected by rain and limited to 15 overs per side, saw Quetta Bolan PD captain Abdul Hadi opting to bowl first. Rawalpindi PD capitalized on their batting power, posting an impressive 190 runs without losing any wickets. Mohammad Arsalan stole the spotlight with a remarkable unbeaten century, scoring 115 runs off just 57 balls, including 16 fours and 2 sixes. His outstanding performance made him the top scorer of the tournament.
In response, Quetta Bolan PD managed to score 120 runs for the loss of 5 wickets. Siraj Khan’s aggressive innings of 79 off 45 balls, highlighted by 7 fours and 6 sixes, kept the spectators engaged. Amir Habib added 28 runs with 3 fours, but their efforts fell short as Rawalpindi PD clinched the victory by a significant margin.
The prize distribution ceremony was graced by national cricketer Mehran Mumtaz and esteemed coach Sabih Azhar, who presented the trophies and awards. Rawalpindi PD captain Kashif Ahmed lifted the winner’s trophy, while Quetta Bolan’s Abdul Hadi received the runner-up trophy. Mohammad Arsalan was named Man of the Match and Best Batsman for his exceptional performances throughout the tournament, Abdul Basit was awarded Best Bowler, and Abdullah Khan earned the Best Fielder accolade.
In their addresses, chief guest Mehran Mumtaz and Sabih Azhar congratulated the Rawalpindi PD team and head coach Syed Rafi Hashmi on their impressive win. They lauded the dedication of disability cricketers, emphasizing that their achievements inspire cricketers nationwide. Notable attendees included PPDCA Regional Head for Balochistan Aslam Barich, Lahore and Sialkot Regional Head Javed Ashraf, and Manager of the Rawalpindi Region Team Khurshid Butt.
The championship showcased remarkable talent and resilience, with players like Arsalan setting a high standard for future tournaments.
