Pakistan edge India in Over-50s World Cup

COLOMBO: The 4th Over 50s Cricket World Cup 2025 has reached its thrilling knockout stage, with Pakistan, Australia, England, and host Sri Lanka securing their places in the semi-finals after an intense round of group-stage matches.

Pakistan’s bowlers held their nerve until the last ball, tearing through India’s batting lineup in a tense encounter at the Pujitha Uduwana Cricket Ground, Horana. Despite India appearing in control for much of the chase, Pakistan staged a dramatic comeback to clinch a nail-biting victory.

Winning the toss, India’s captain opted to field first, a decision that initially paid off as Pakistan lost wickets at regular intervals. At 124/6 in 28.3 overs, Pakistan found themselves in deep trouble.

However, their batting depth proved crucial. Muhammad Hafeez (29 off 27 balls) played a brisk knock before being clean bowled by a stunning delivery. The real fightback was led by Shaikh Iqbal Ahmed (44 off 60 balls), who, despite suffering a hamstring injury, returned to bat and built a crucial 64-run partnership off 68 balls with wicketkeeper Azher Khan (40 off 45 balls).

Chasing 227, India got off to a strong start, racing to 80/1 in just 16.1 overs. Fakir Dungaria (26 off 39 balls) and Murugan Mayilswamy (16 off 19 balls) played handy knocks, but the key innings came from Sohail Masood, who looked in sublime touch, scoring a brilliant 78 off 86 balls.

Despite the collapse, Mandar Phadke (18 off 31 balls) and wicketkeeper Vinayak Samant (44 off 30 balls) rebuilt the innings and brought India within touching distance of victory. With only 27 runs needed off 11 overs, India appeared to be cruising. But Pakistan’s bowlers and fielders delivered under pressure, turning the tide of the match in dramatic fashion. Muhammad Jaffer Qureshi (3/55), Rehan Rauf (1/41), and Muhammad Hafeez (1/38) bowled with precision, pulling off a remarkable comeback.