LEEDS, England – Kamran Akmal turned back the clock with a scintillating century that propelled the Pakistan Champions to a dominant 49-run victory over the struggling West Indies Champions in the World Championship of Legends on Saturday.
The defeat marked the Caribbean side’s third in four matches, leaving them teetering at fourth on the table.
Century of authority: Akmal takes center stage
Electing to bat first after winning the toss, Pakistan Champions capitalized on pristine batting conditions. Akmal, the veteran wicketkeeper-batsman, was imperious from the outset, smashing a dazzling 113 off just 62 deliveries. His innings featured a flurry of 13 boundaries and five towering sixes, anchoring Pakistan’s commanding total of 200 for four in their allotted 20 overs.
It was a performance of clinical aggression and finesse—one that overwhelmed the West Indies attack and set the tone for a convincing win.
Rumman Raes wreaks early havoc
In response, the West Indies Champions stumbled out of the blocks and never recovered. Seamer Rumman Raes delivered a stunning opening spell, tearing through the top order. He removed power-hitters Chris Gayle, Dwayne Smith, and Lendl Simmons in rapid succession, effectively neutralizing the Windies’ firepower before it could ignite.
Raes finished with eye-catching figures of 3 for 4 from his three-over burst, dismantling the backbone of the West Indies chase with surgical precision.
Fleeting resistance from Walton and Bravo
Despite the early carnage, the Caribbean side managed to avoid total collapse thanks to pockets of resistance. Chadwick Walton compiled a fluent 42 off 30 balls, while Wayne Perkins (30) and Ashley Nurse (25) provided some brief sparks. Dwayne Bravo remained unbeaten on 30, but the run rate ballooned beyond reach as wickets continued to fall at crucial junctures.
The West Indies Champions ultimately limped to 151 for seven in their 20 overs—well short of the target.
Pakistan remains unbeaten; West Indies struggles deepen
With this victory, Pakistan maintained their unblemished record in the tournament, clinching their third win in as many games to climb to second in the standings.
The West Indies, however, find themselves under mounting pressure. With only one win from four outings, their hopes of a turnaround are hanging by a thread.
Bowling brilliance rounds off Pakistan’s performance
While Akmal’s century grabbed the headlines, the supporting cast also shone. Aamer Yamin (2-23) and Sohail Tanvir (2-23) ensured Pakistan’s grip never loosened. Their controlled spells choked the scoring rate and sealed the fate of the Windies Champions.
The Pakistan Champions, now riding a wave of confidence, are well-poised for a strong finish in the tournament. Meanwhile, the West Indies Champions must regroup swiftly if they hope to salvage their campaign.
As the World Championship of Legends heats up, the brilliance of Akmal’s century serves as a stark reminder: class is permanent—and match-winning.
