AJMAN: India beat a depleted Pakistan side by seven wickets here in a crucial match of the Blind Cricket World Cup at Ajman Oval Cricket Ground on Friday.

Pakistan could not field its best side in the match after five of its leading players, including top batsman Badar Munir, were denied visas for the UAE despite Pakistan govt’s efforts.

India won the toss and decided to bowl first. Pakistan scored 282 for the loss of 8 wickets in the allotted 40 overs with Muhammad Jamil remaining unbeaten on 94 off 95 balls. Nisar Ali also played well for his 64 runs while Matiullah made 25.

Sunil, Deepak, Ajay Reddy and Rambir took a wicket apiece for India.

The target of 283 wasn’t really challenging for the strong Indian batting line-up who successfully overhauled it in 34.5 overs for the loss of just 3 wickets. Deepak Malik scored an unbeaten 79 runs while Venkatesh scored 64. Zafar Iqbal took 2 wickets for 27 runs and Haroon Khan claimed 1 wicket for 46.Deepak Malik was declared the man of the Match.

CEO International Cricket Council (ICC) David Richardson, Iftikhar Hamdani and Syed Sultan Shah Chairman Pakistan Blind Cricket Council, also watched the game and later distributed prizes amongst the players.

In another exciting match of the day, Bangladesh defeated Australia by 7 wickets here.

Asked to bat first, Australia scored 327 for the loss of 9 wickets in stipulated 40 overs with Stephen Palmer scoring a brilliant century.

In reply, a captain’s innings by Tanzil-ur- Rehman helped Bangladesh to successfully chase the target for the loss of 3 wickets in the 38th over. Tanzil scored a superb 106 and was declared Man of the Match.

Published in Dawn, January 13th, 2018