South Africa delivered a masterclass in both batting and bowling to overpower Pakistan by nine wickets in the final of the World Championship of Legends (WCL) at Edgbaston, securing the title with a commanding performance on Saturday.
Chasing a stiff target of 196 runs, the South African side made it look effortless, spearheaded by an electrifying innings from AB de Villiers. The veteran batter stunned the crowd with an unbeaten 120 off just 51 balls, displaying power, precision, and his signature flair. His knock featured 12 boundaries and 7 towering sixes, anchoring a near-flawless chase.
South Africa faced a minor hiccup at the start when opener Hashim Amla was dismissed early, scoring 18 off 14 deliveries. However, that momentary breakthrough for Pakistan failed to shift the momentum. De Villiers, with his aggressive yet calculated approach, quickly regained control, dismantling the opposition’s bowling attack with authority.
Pakistan had earlier set a competitive total of 195 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs. Sharjeel Khan led the charge with an explosive 76 off 42 balls, striking 9 fours and 4 sixes to provide a strong foundation. His opening blitz kept the scoreboard ticking at a brisk pace and set an aggressive tone for the innings.
Umar Amin added valuable support with a brisk 36 off 19 deliveries, stabilizing the middle overs. The final flourish came from Asif Ali, who played a fiery cameo, smashing 28 runs off just 15 balls. Pakistan’s late onslaught added 61 runs in the final five overs, boosting the total to what seemed like a defendable score.
However, Pakistan’s bowling lacked the penetration needed to contain a charged South African side. Despite the high total, the bowlers struggled with line and length, offering scoring opportunities that de Villiers capitalized on ruthlessly.
On the South African bowling side, Wayne Parnell emerged as the standout performer, taking 2 wickets for 32 runs. His disciplined bowling kept Pakistan from running away with the game. Dwaine Olivier and Hardus Viljoen also made key contributions, claiming one wicket each to help restrict the opposition.
The match was a showcase of individual brilliance and team cohesion, with South Africa dominating all departments. Their unbeaten run throughout the tournament culminated in a fittingly emphatic victory, leaving no doubt about their supremacy in this edition of the World Championship of Legends.
Pakistan, despite a valiant batting effort, will be left to rue their missed opportunities and inability to counter de Villiers’ onslaught.The tournament, however, offered fans thrilling moments and high-caliber performances, with the final serving as a dramatic conclusion.
