The Champions T20 Cup 2024/25 witnessed a pulsating clash between Stallions and Lions in the 4th match of the tournament, held at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Stallions emerged victorious by 12 runs in a game packed with momentum shifts, thanks to a stellar all-round performance by Shoaib Malik.
Match Overview
Winning the toss, the Lions decided to field first, aiming to leverage favorable conditions. However, Stallions posted a challenging total of 162/5 in their allotted 20 overs. Hussain Talat and Shoaib Malik anchored the innings, scoring 51 off 36 and 39 off 30 balls respectively, keeping the score ticking despite early setbacks.
In response, the Lions fell short at 150/7 despite a valiant 43 off 28 balls from their skipper, Imam-ul-Haq. Shoaib Malik, once again, shone with the ball, claiming crucial wickets and was adjudged Player of the Match for his all-round display.
Stallions’ Innings
Stallions’ innings started on a shaky note with Shamyl Hussain (4) and Yasir Khan (0) falling early. Maaz Sadaqat (32) and Mohammad Haris (25) steadied the innings but the real push came from Hussain Talat and Shoaib Malik. The pair added vital runs in the middle overs. Talat’s composed half-century and Malik’s aggressive stroke play ensured a competitive total.
For the Lions, Muhammad Musa (2/31) stood out, claiming key wickets and keeping the opposition under control during the death overs.
Lions’ Chase
Chasing 163, the Lions got off to a disastrous start as Zeeshan Malik departed for a duck. Captain Imam-ul-Haq played a captain’s knock, blasting 43 off 28 balls with four boundaries and a six. Hasan Nawaz added 30 runs but the middle order struggled against the disciplined bowling of Shoaib Malik and Usman Tariq.
Shoaib Malik’s 2/23 was instrumental in breaking partnerships, while Zaman Khan and Usman Tariq chipped in with two wickets each, dismantling the Lions’ middle order.
Key Performances
- Hussain Talat (Stallions): Anchored the innings with a crucial 51* off 36 balls.
- Shoaib Malik (Stallions): Contributed 39 runs with the bat and picked up 2 wickets for 23 runs.
- Imam-ul-Haq (Lions): Scored a fighting 43 off 28 balls in a losing cause.
- Muhammad Musa (Lions): Took 2 wickets, conceding 31 runs.
Turning Point
The turning point was Shoaib Malik’s spell in the middle overs, where he dismissed Awais Zafar and Shahid Aziz. His ability to maintain a tight line and length restricted the Lions from accelerating in crucial phases of the chase.
Match Details
- Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
- Player of the Match: Shoaib Malik
- Points Table Impact: Stallions secured two points, keeping them in contention for the next stages.
