Bayuemas Oval, Kuala Lumpur, September 5, 2024 – Kuwait delivered an impressive performance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier A, overpowering Malaysia by 8 wickets. Usman Patel’s brilliant unbeaten 57 off 38 balls led Kuwait’s charge as they comfortably chased down the target of 150 in just 15.2 overs, solidifying their dominance in the tournament.
Malaysia’s Struggle with the Bat:
Malaysia, after electing to bat, posted 149/7 in their 20 overs. Virandeep Singh (43 off 37) and Ahmed Faiz (28 off 10) provided crucial contributions in the middle, but wickets fell at regular intervals. Kuwait’s bowlers, especially Yasin Patel, who claimed 3 wickets for 22 runs in his 4 overs, kept Malaysia in check. Mohammed Aslam and Shiraz Khan also chipped in with a wicket each to restrict Malaysia to a below-par total.
Kuwait’s Commanding Chase:
In response, Kuwait started aggressively, with Clinto Anto blasting 34 off just 11 balls, which included four sixes. Usman Patel anchored the chase, scoring a fine unbeaten 57, while Meet Bhavsar contributed with 39*. Despite losing two wickets early, Kuwait maintained a high scoring rate and finished the chase comfortably within 15.2 overs.
Brief Scores:
Malaysia: 149/7 in 20 overs (Virandeep Singh 43, Ahmed Faiz 28, Yasin Patel 3/22)
Kuwait: 150/2 in 15.2 overs (Usman Patel 57*, Meet Bhavsar 39*, Vijay Unni 1/25)
Result: Kuwait won by 8 wickets
Player of the Match: Usman Patel (57* off 38)
Kuwait’s comprehensive win highlights their strength in both batting and bowling as they continue their impressive run in the Asia Qualifier. Malaysia, despite their efforts, will need to regroup quickly for their upcoming matches.
