The IMC Over-40s T20 World Cup launched in Karachi with excitement. The opening day featured six compelling matches, highlighted by a tense victory for the host nation.
In the feature match at National Stadium, Pakistan began its campaign with a hard-fought win. The team secured a narrow three-run victory over a determined South African side.
South Africa won the toss and chose to field first. Pakistan’s batsmen built a solid total of 134 for 5 in their 20 overs.
Tariq Mahmood led the scoring with a composed 45 runs. Captain Abdul Razzaq provided strong support, adding a quick 36.
In response, South Africa’s Werner Moolman fought back with a resilient 55 from 48 balls. However, Pakistan’s bowlers delivered under pressure. Seamer Sohail Khan delivered a decisive final spell. He took three crucial wickets for 29 runs, earning the Player of the Match award.
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The opening day saw several other strong performances. At Southend Club, the USA notched a 24-run win over the Rest of the Gulf. The West Indies also started strongly at Karachi Gymkhana. They comfortably chased down Canada’s total of 122 with seven wickets in hand.
Other victors included the United Arab Emirates and the Rest of the World team. Sri Lanka also secured a thrilling three-wicket win over Australia. The successful opening day highlighted the competitive spirit of veteran cricketers. It set a promising and exciting tone for the rest of the tournament.
