Kabul, August 21, 2024: Amo Sharks delivered a solid all-round performance to clinch a 19-run victory over Band-e-Amir Dragons in the Shpageeza Cricket League at the Kabul International Cricket Stadium. The match, which saw a high-scoring contest, was highlighted by a brilliant bowling display from Fazalhaq Farooqi, who was named Player of the Match for his outstanding figures of 5/18.
Match Report:
Amo Sharks Innings: After winning the toss and electing to bat, Amo Sharks posted a formidable total of 201/5 in their 20 overs. Abdul Malik anchored the innings with a well-crafted 73 off 56 balls, while Zubaid Akbari provided fireworks with a quickfire 39 off just 16 deliveries. The Sharks capitalized on a strong start, scoring 64 runs in the powerplay. Despite some tight bowling from Nangeyalia Kharote, who took 2/25, the Sharks managed to breach the 200-run mark.
Band-e-Amir Dragons Innings: Chasing 202, Band-e-Amir Dragons started aggressively, scoring 68 runs in the powerplay. Karim Janat led the charge with a blistering 76 off 39 balls, supported by Sediqullah Atal’s 37 off 15 balls. However, Fazalhaq Farooqi’s devastating spell, combined with Sharafuddin Ashraf’s 3/38, dismantled the Dragons’ batting lineup, eventually bundling them out for 182 in 19.2 overs, falling short by 19 runs.
Key Performances:
- Fazalhaq Farooqi’s Bowling Masterclass: Farooqi’s match-winning figures of 5/18 were crucial in restricting the Dragons’ chase.
- Abdul Malik’s Steady Knock: Malik’s 73 provided the foundation for the Sharks’ imposing total.
Records and Milestones:
- Mohammad Ishaq: Set a new record for most dismissals by a wicketkeeper (5) in T20s for Amo Sharks, surpassing Murad Ali’s previous record of 3.
- Sharafuddin Ashraf: Became the top wicket-taker for Amo Sharks in T20s with 13 wickets, overtaking Abdul Wasi’s 11.
- Highest Match Aggregate: The match aggregate of 383 runs is the highest ever involving Amo Sharks and Band-e-Amir Dragons in T20s.
Brief Scores:
Amo Sharks: 201/5 in 20 overs (Abdul Malik 73, Zubaid Akbari 39; Nangeyalia Kharote 2/25)
Band-e-Amir Dragons: 182 in 19.2 overs (Karim Janat 76, Sediqullah Atal 37; Fazalhaq Farooqi 5/18, Sharafuddin Ashraf 3/38)
Player of the Match: Fazalhaq Farooqi for his brilliant bowling spellÂ
Result: Amo Sharks won by 19 runs
Amo Sharks’ victory was a testament to their balanced approach, excelling in both batting and bowling departments. Farooqi’s exceptional bowling and Malik’s composed batting were the standout performances that guided them to a crucial win, keeping their momentum strong in the Shpageeza Cricket League.
