Brace yourselves for an electrifying cricket clash! The Issy UK Sports Cricket Series witnessed an intense battle between AS Academy and ZAS Academy. In a nail-biting encounter, AS Academy emerged victorious, securing a 2-0 series.
Group photo of both teams.
Aayan’s Heroics and AS Academy’s Dominance
AS Academy, having won the toss, opted to bat first with a fresh opening pair. Aayan, hungry for his chance, unleashed a flurry of exquisite shots all around the ground. His innings of 44 off 23 balls, peppered with 8 boundaries, set the stadium abuzz. Aayan was looking dangerous as every ball he was improving and hungry to score runs. His aggresive approach showed the intend he came with which was important for AS Academy as they found another agressive opener.
Saud provided valuable support with his 20 runs. He has been in the past a good opening pair but over the last few games, he has been coming at 3 but today opened and reminded the other players, that if given the chance to open again, he will be agressive too and this will help to take the advantage of the powerplay. Fahad Munir tantalized the crowd but fell for 38 off 21 deliveries, including 5 fours and a thunderous six. Ahmed Zia, defying his usual opening role, adjusted seamlessly to the lower order, contributing 27 off 25 balls. Sheeraz, the centurion from the previous match, continued his fireworks, smashing 29 off just 16 balls, while Fahad Zaffar chipped in with a quickfire 21 off 14. AS Academy posted a formidable total of 202 runs for ZAS Academy to chase.
ZAS Academy’s Grit and AS Academy’s Resolute Bowling In response, ZAS Academy faced early setbacks, losing Shahzad to a brilliant yorker from Fahad Zaffar.
However, Basit’s aggressive innings of 83 off 52 balls, featuring 12 boundaries, kept the fans on the edge of their seats. Unfortunately, Basit retired hurt, leaving Hamayl (60* off 47) as the lone warrior. Despite his valiant efforts, ZAS Academy fell short by 16 runs.
Both were running well between the wickets, taking singles and doubles where possible, he though the weather temeprature was over47 degrees but both didn't take notice and kept going until Bashit was retired out but Hamayl was pushing every ball. AS Academy’s bowlers played a pivotal role. Fahad Zaffar, Fahad Munir, and Irtiza each claimed a wicket, while Sheeraz’s two scalps tightened the noose on ZAS Academy.
Outstanding Performers and Series Highlights
- Man of the Match: Aayan Khan (AS Academy)
- Best Wicket-Taker: Fahad Munir (AS Academy) with 3 wickets
- Best Batsman: Arham Atif (AS Academy)
- Player of the Tournament: Sheeraz Ahmed (AS Academy)
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The Issy UK Sports Cricket Series was a rollercoaster of emotions, with individual performances celebrated through special shirts.
The series witnessed a total of 750 runs, 27 wickets, 80 fours, 3 sixes, and memorable milestones, including 3 fifties and 1 century. Hashir Sajjad’s maiden over stood out as a rare gem.
AS Academy’s captain, Aasif Sheikh, lauded both teams for their spirited play in scorching conditions. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to Nadeem Babar, CEO of Riyadh Cricket Association, for supporting the youth and allowing the series to grace the hallowed RCA grounds.
Fans, mark your calendars—the next showdown promises even more drama and adrenaline! |