Yuvraj Singh. (Photo source: Fancode)
India Champions emerged victorious against Pakistan Champions in the inaugural World Championship of Legends (WCL) final at Edgbaston, Birmingham on 13 July. Led by the charismatic Yuvraj Singh, India clinched a five-wicket win, chasing down a target of 157 with five balls to spare.
The Indian skipper praised his team’s performance throughout the tournament, particularly highlighting their strategic approach against Pakistan’s bowling attack.
“I don’t think there’s any better feeling than coming and winning the game for India; that’s our passion. I think you always say that it’s been so many years, and it’s hard to get back on the field, but as I said, no better feeling,” he told Star Sports.
“I think Australia and Pakistan were really good teams in the tournament. We had to play some really good cricket to beat them, which we did. And especially against the Pakistani bowling, we had to really plan well to beat them,” he added.
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The match saw cricket legends from both nations reigniting their passion for the game. Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first and posted a total of 156/6 in their allotted 20 overs.
Shoaib Malik scored 41, while Kamran Akmal and Sohaib Maqsood made valuable contributions. India’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Anureet Singh with figures of 3/43, kept the Pakistani batters in check.
India’s chase began with a slight wobble, losing Robin Uthappa and Suresh Raina early. However, Ambati Rayudu’s explosive 50 off 30 balls, including five fours and two sixes, set the tone for India’s victory.
Gurkeerat Singh Mann (34) and Yusuf Pathan played crucial knocks, with Pathan’s quick-fire knock of 30 in just 16 balls turning the tide decisively in India’s favour.
Great experience, great being in Birmingham: Yuvraj
The match’s final moments saw skipper Singh (15*) and Irfan Pathan (5*) at the crease, as the latter was seen sealing the win by hitting a boundary off the first ball in the last over. Post the match, Singh shared his thoughts about the match and winning the game for India.
Yuvraj also praised the WCL organizers for putting together a successful tournament, noting the outstanding crowd support in Birmingham.
Also Read: Yuvraj Singh reacts to WCL win
“Great experience, great being in Birmingham. The crowd is outstanding. I think it’s a great venue. Many congratulations to WCL for putting this tournament together. I think they worked very hard, and they could not have had a better India-Pakistan final. It’s great for the league, and I think everybody enjoyed the tournament, and now we’re going back with the trophy,” he concluded.
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