+ A
A -
Tribune News Network
DOHA
United Challengers rallied back with superb bowling and fielding to get the better of Al Hamra by one run in a thrilling Qatar Cricket League match at the Asian Town Cricket Stadium.
Batting first, United Challengers were shot out for a modest 127 in 19 overs with Zamil leading the collapse with three for 14 in four overs. Janaka and Kiramath bowled well to share four scalps, while Musaver picked one.
Niksy smashed a six and seven boundaries to hit 43, the highest for his team. Ahanaf added a crucial 32 in just 22 balls with two sixes and as many boundaries. Rasmi (13) and Samad (14) came up with brief but vital knocks.
During the chase, Al Hamra started well to reach 36 in four overs through Israr but the loss of other opener Salman (five) triggered a collapse, leaving them struggling six down for 87. Israr made 41 in 32 balls with three sixes and four boundaries.
Later, Samad attempted to lead a recovery and slammed three sixes and half a dozen fours in his 52 not out. However, Al Hamra players could not offer the much-needed support from other end, falling short of the target by just two runs in the end. Six of their players combined for just six runs, while three of them failed to open their account.
Six of the eight United Challengers bowlers shared the wickets with Abhishek leading the efforts with one for 10.
Ahanaf of United Challengers was declared the man of the match for his 32 runs and a wicket.
Brief scores
United Challengers beat Al Hamra by one run
United Challengers: 127 all out in 19 overs (Niksy 43 (31 balls), Ahanaf 32 (22), Zamil 3/14, Janaka 2/24, Kiramath 2/15)
Al Hamra: 126 for seven in 20 overs (Israr 41 (32), Khalil 19 (22), Samad 52 (34), Abhishek 1/10, Fharan 1/18, Rasmi 1/31, Suresh 1/14, Ahanaf 1/13, Sathish 1/14)
Man of the match: Ahanaf (United Challengers)
