Karachi (PR)i: Pakistan Wheelchair Cricket Team showcased dominance and determination as they defeated Afghanistan by 9 wickets in the fourth and final T20I at the UBL Sports Complex, Karachi, sealing the series 3–1. The victory was anchored by outstanding half-centuries from Gohar Afridi and Usama Tariq, while all-rounder Muhammad Fayyaz continued to shine, earning the title of Player of the Tournament.
Afghanistan won the toss and elected to bat first. Despite a steady start, they struggled to build a big total against Pakistan’s disciplined bowling. Jaber Safi top-scored with 38 runs, while Zar Alam (23) and Raheemullah (14 not out) provided brief resistance. Other batters, including Mansoor Adil (14) and Abasin (15), failed to convert starts into significant scores.
Afghanistan ended their innings at 155/8 in 20 overs. Pakistan’s bowling was led by Muhammad Fayyaz, who took two key wickets, while Ayub and Ahmad Yar chipped in with one wicket each.
In response, Pakistan’s batters came out with a clear attacking mindset. Gohar Afridi lit up the ground with a brilliant 64 off just 41 balls, smashing 14 boundaries in his aggressive knock. He was well supported by Usama Tariq, who remained unbeaten on 60 runs, ensuring Pakistan’s chase never faltered.
Muhammad Fayyaz added 24 runs to his all-round effort before being dismissed, the only wicket to fall. Pakistan comfortably reached 156/1 in 14.4 overs, securing an emphatic victory. Afghanistan’s Mir Akbar was the lone wicket-taker for his side.
At the post-match ceremony, Gohar Afridi was declared Player of the Match for his explosive innings, while Muhammad Fayyaz was honored as Player of the Tournament for his consistent all-round performances across the series.
Pakistan’s skipper Muhammad Zeeshan dedicated the series triumph to the Pakistan Army and national martyrs. He remarked:
“This victory belongs to those brave sons of the soil who sacrificed their lives for our nation. It is because of their sacrifices that we live in peace. They confront the enemy fearlessly, without concern for their own lives or families.”
Zeeshan added that the win represented more than just a sporting triumph: “This is not only Pakistan’s success, but a victory for wheelchair cricket as a whole. We have also worked to support the growth of Afghan wheelchair cricket, which is why this historic tour became possible.”
Afghanistan’s captain Mansoor Adil expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s hospitality and praised the competitive spirit of the series:
“It was a proud moment for us to play our first international wheelchair cricket series in Pakistan. Our players showed passion and commitment, and we hope to carry this momentum into the upcoming Asia Cup.”
He further said, “We are thankful to the Pakistan Wheelchair Cricket Council and management for their warm welcome and outstanding arrangements. Pakistan’s hospitality has deeply impressed us, and we look forward to more such opportunities.”
The successful conclusion of this series marked another milestone in the promotion of wheelchair cricket in the region. Both teams not only competed fiercely on the field but also strengthened the spirit of sportsmanship, brotherhood, and inclusion through the game.
With the Asia Cup around the corner, Pakistan’s dominant performance will boost their confidence, while Afghanistan will aim to learn from the experience and deliver improved results in upcoming tournaments.
