KARACHI: Karachi overpowered defending champions Hyderabad 16-15 after a close battle by to win the sixth Inter-Divisional Softball Championship at Hyderabad Club in the city on Monday.

The hosts started off well scoring six runs in the first inning while restricting the visiting Karachi team to four runs.

Hyderabad managed to augment their lead in the second inning as well scoring six runs while limiting Karachi to five runs taking a 12-9 lead after two innings.

However, in the decisive third inning, Hyderabad paid the price for their complacency and were restricted to three runs. Chasing a competitive target of seven runs, Karachi managed to reach the victory total without losing a wicket to clinch the title.

Alizey, Zarlasht, Aisha Ishtiaq and Rida played well for Karachi scoring three runs each. Deeba and Mahnoor scored as many runs each for Hyderabad.

In the third place play-off, Shaheed Benazirabad team defeated Sukkur by 11-10 score after a tough battle.

Commissioner Hyderabad Mohammad Abbas Baloch, who was the chief guest, said the tournament will not only promote softball in Hyderabad but it would also popularise the game in the interior Sindh as well.

He also praised the organizers for organising the tournament in a befitting manner.

Published in Dawn, April 30th, 2019