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Irfan Pathan showcased his aggressive side during the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2024 Final between India Champions and Pakistan Champions at Edgbaston, Birmingham, on Saturday (July 13).
Irfan Pathan’s fierce celebration after the dismissal of Younis Khan
The dismissal occurred during the 12th over of the Pakistan Champions’ innings. Younis Khan, an experienced batter, attempted to play across the line against a straight delivery from Pathan. Unfortunately for Younis, he misjudged the shot and missed the ball entirely, allowing it to crash into his stumps. This dismissal was a significant moment in the match, as Pathan, clearly energized and motivated, celebrated with a triumphant roar. In contrast, Younis was visibly frustrated and disappointed with his poor shot selection, which had led to his downfall. This crucial wicket left the Pakistan Champions in a precarious position at 79/4 in 11.3 overs, significantly impacting their momentum and putting them under increased pressure.
Here’s the video:
Irfan Pathan. Inswinger. Younis Khan.
Even 18 years later, the result remains the same☝🏽@IrfanPathan | #IndvPakonFanCode pic.twitter.com/VSWLRhfBUO
— FanCode (@FanCode) July 13, 2024
Also READ: Shaheen Afridi and his wife Ansha Afridi to become parents soon
Pakistan’s struggle and resilience
Following Younis’s dismissal, Shoaib Malik was joined by Misbah-ul-Haq. However, Misbah’s time at the crease was cut short due to an injury, leaving Pakistan at 117/5. Aamer Yasin‘s brief stint ended with his dismissal for 7 runs, bringing Pakistan to 126/6. Malik, who was in fine form, anchored the innings with a score of 41 off 36 balls before being dismissed at 133/6. Despite the setbacks, Shahid Afridi and Sohail Tanvir managed to carry on, with Pakistan Champions eventually posting 156/6 in their allotted 20 overs. Tanvir and Afridi remained unbeaten on 19 and 4 runs, respectively. Anureet Singh led the Indian bowling attack with three wickets, while Vinay Kumar, Pawan Negi and Pathan each took one wicket.
Thrilling chase and dramatic finish for India
India’s chase began aggressively, with openers Robin Uthappa and Ambati Rayudu dominating the powerplay. Rayudu’s explosive start included a boundary and a six off Aamer Yameen, and Uthappa followed with two boundaries before being dismissed, leaving India at 38/2. Suresh Raina hit a boundary but quickly fell, adding pressure on India. Rayudu and Gurkeerat Singh Mann then steadied the innings with a 60-run partnership, but both were dismissed in quick succession, creating tension. Yusuf Pathan and Yuvraj Singh capitalized on dropped catches, with Yusuf’s aggressive 30 off 16 balls keeping India in the game. Pathan sealed the victory with a six in the final over, concluding the match dramatically.
