Irfan Pathan turned back the clock with his incredible bowling, dismissing Younis Khan in the final of the World Championship of Legends (WCL) between India and Pakistan. His performance, though only taking one wicket, brought back memories of his famous hat-trick against Pakistan in 2006.
India, led by Yuvraj Singh, chased down the target of 157 runs set by Pakistan, winning the match by five wickets. Ambati Rayudu played a crucial role with his quick fifty (50 off 30 balls), while Yusuf Pathan (30 off 16 balls) and Gurkeerat Singh Mann (34 off 33 balls) made important contributions. Yuvraj (15 not out) and Irfan (5 not out) finished the job, securing the win for India.
The strike with which India Champions made the WCL trophy theirs ❤️#IndvPakonFanCode #WCLonFanCode pic.twitter.com/vqodrKyYTD
— FanCode (@FanCode) July 13, 2024
Pakistan had earlier scored 156 for 6, with Indian bowlers, led by Anureet Singh’s three-wicket haul, doing well to limit their score. In response, India started well with a 34-run partnership between openers Robin Uthappa and Rayudu. However, Aamer Yamin’s two quick wickets put pressure on India, dismissing Uthappa (10) and Suresh Raina (4).
Rayudu and Mann then added a solid 60-run partnership before Rayudu was dismissed by Saeed Ajmal. Yusuf and Yuvraj’s partnership of 42 runs in just 5.4 overs sealed the victory for India.
India vs Pakistan Final? No problem, says Ambati Rayudu 🔥#IndvPakonFanCode #WCLonFanCode pic.twitter.com/mIrHfq6sUT
— FanCode (@FanCode) July 13, 2024
India, the champions of the WCL. pic.twitter.com/47MFgvUZhY
— Ihtisham Ul Haq (@iihtishamm) July 13, 2024
The highlight of the celebration was Irfan Pathan’s unique way of shouting out each teammate’s name in a funny manner, which sent Suresh Raina tumbling over in laughter. This moment was captured on video and quickly went viral on social media, adding a joyful end to India’s triumphant day.
India’s victory in the WCL final was not just about cricket; it was about reliving old memories, enjoying the game, and celebrating as a team.