Karachi (Sports News): In a thrilling final of the IMC Over-40s T20 World Cup 2025 at the National Bank Stadium, Australia defeated Pakistan by 7 wickets to claim the title. Despite a decent all-round performance by Fawad Alam, his efforts were insufficient to steer Pakistan to victory.
After winning the toss, the unbeaten Pakistani side elected to bat first. Humayun Farhat and Abdul Razzaq opened the innings. Pakistan posted a total of 150 for 9 in their 20 overs. Fawad Alam and Nadeem Javed made contributions of 24 runs each. On the bowling front, Australian fast bowler Mark Cleary was the pick, claiming five wickets while conceding just 22 runs.
In response, Australia chased down the target in the 19th over with only three wickets down. Steve Nottle produced a fine 47 off 40 balls to steer his side home. Among other notable performers, Steven Paulsen scored a composed 42, while Nasir Jalil remained unbeaten at 25. From the Pakistani camp, Fawad Alam also chipped in with the ball, taking 2 wickets for 16 runs. Mark Cleary was declared Player of the Match.
Humayun Farhat ended as the leading run-scorer, hit the most sixes and was deservedly named Best Batsman of the Tournament. Mark Cleary (Australia) ended as the most successful bowler of the tournament with 19 wickets in 7 innings. Additional honours: Antonnel Atwell (West Indies) was named Player of the Tournament, Khalid Qureshi (Hong Kong) was awarded Best Wicket-keeper and Harshad Ghodke (Rest of the World) was declared Best Fielder.
At the conclusion of the final, trophies and awards were presented by International Masters Cricket Chairman, Stirling Hamman and Pakistan Veterans Cricket Association Chairman, Fawad Ijaz Khan. The ceremony was attended by other PVCA Officials and dignitaries.
