Pakistan gears up for final showdown with Bangladesh in Blind T20 World Cup

The Pakistan men's blind cricket team is aiming to secure their first-ever T20 Blind World Cup title as they prepare to face Bangladesh in the final at the Multan Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.

The much-anticipated match is set to commence at 11 a.m.

Remaining unbeaten in the league stage and defeating Nepal comprehensively in the semi-finals, Pakistan, led by the seasoned Nisar Ali, is favorite to claim the title in what could be a one-sided encounter.

Pakistan’s blind cricket team is regarded as one of the strongest globally, often compared to India, which missed this tournament after failing to secure an NOC from its government.

Historically, India has won all three previous T20 Blind World Cups, defeating Pakistan in the finals of 2012 and 2017, and overcoming Bangladesh in the 2022 final. Pakistan did not participate in the 2022 edition after they were denied visas.

Pakistan coach Masood Jan expressed optimism about Pakistan’s chances.

“With the hard work we’ve put in and the way the team has performed in this tournament, we are confident of beating Bangladesh in the final,” Masood said in Multan.

Bangladesh captain Arif Hussain shared his excitement ahead of the final. Despite acknowledging Pakistan’s strength, he vowed to give his best effort.

“Pakistan is a strong team, but we will fight till the very end,” Arif said, adding that his squad is fully fit and ready to challenge Pakistan.

Road to final

Both Pakistan and Bangladesh reached the final with impressive semi-final victories.

Pakistan defeated Nepal by ten wickets in the first semi-final. Nepal managed 94-7 in 20 overs, with Durga Datta contributing 40 runs, while Matiullah excelled with the ball, taking 3-5 in four overs.

Pakistan chased down the target in just 5.3 overs without losing a wicket. Kamran Akhtar, who was named player of the match, smashed a record-breaking 63 not out off 21 balls, including 12 fours and one six, completing the fastest fifty in T20 blind cricket history in just 14 balls.

In the second semi-final, Bangladesh edged past Sri Lanka by six runs in a thrilling contest. Bangladesh posted 244-6, powered by Mohammad Salman’s explosive 97 off 49 balls and Arif Hussain’s solid 81 off 56 balls.

Sri Lanka responded strongly but fell short at 238-4, despite Chandana’s 86 off 54 balls and Dinesh’s 35 off 28.