On this day in 1989, Pakistan won the Nehru Cup final. They beat West Indies in a thrilling run chase at the Eden Gardens to claim a win by 4 wickets. Star player Imran Khan was the best performer who did well both as a batter and as a bowler. He helped Pakistan to win the final against a great side like West Indies.
Batting first, the men in maroon posted a good total of 273 runs on the board. Desmond Haynes batted well and smashed a magnificent 107(137). While his knock was slightly on the slower side, the 2-time world champions were helped by some poor bowling. Pakistan conceded 26 extras, which was big in the context of the match.
Phil Simmons and Richie Richardson played decent hands. Viv Richards and Jeff Dujon played fine cameos which took West Indies to a total of 273 runs on the board. Imran claimed 3/47 in his 9 overs. Chasing an above par total, Pakistan suffered an early blow as Aamer Malik was dismissed for 3 runs. What followed was good solidifying innings from Ramiz Raja and Ijaz Ahmed.
The duo batted with intent and put the pressure back on the Windies. While Ramiz perished after 35(31), Ijaz continued and registered 56(66). Javed Miandad played a slow knock of 17(36) which put pressure on the batters at the other end. However, it was Saleem Malik’s aggressive knock which helped Pakistan to be in a comfortable position in the run chase.
The star batter scored 71 runs in 62 balls which included 6 fours and a six. At the other end, Imran anchored the innings well. He scored an unbeaten 55*(75). With a bit of help from Akram Raza and Wasim Akram, Pakistan was able to chase the total with a ball to spare. Wasim smashed an important match-winning six in his very first ball. Imran was awarded the POTM as Pakistan lifted the Nehru Cup.