Irfan may have taken just a solitary wicket to contribute in India’s title win, but the way he rattled the stumps behind Pakistan Champions’ captain, it reminded of an almost similar delivery he produced in the 2006 Karachi Test to dismiss Younis as the second wicket of his famous hat-trick. Led by Yuvraj Singh, India successfully chased a target of 157 runs in 19.1 overs to clinch the WCL trophy with a five-wicket win.
Ambati Rayudu (50 off 30 off balls) set up India’s run-chase with a quick-fire fifty, followed by crucial contributions from Yusuf Pathan (30 off 16 balls) and Gurkeerat Singh Mann (34 off 33 balls).
Yuvraj (15 not out) and Irfan (5 not out) completed the formalities to take India to victory.
After the win, the India Champions squad got together to pose for a team photo and Irfan led the celebrations in a unique fashion, shouting names of each of his teammates in a funny way, which sent Suresh Raina tumbling over in uncontrollable laughter.
The moment was captured on a video that made it to social media.
WATCH
Earlier in the game, Pakistan posted a total of 156 for 6 after winning the toss and opting to bat first.
Indian bowlers, spearheaded by Anureet Singh’s three-wicket haul, restricted Pakistan’s run flow. As a result, India were able to limit their opponents to a par total.
In run-chase, openers Robin Uthappa and Rayudu got India off to a promising start with a 34-run partnership. However, pacer Aamer Yamin swung the momentum back in Pakistan’s favour by dismissing Uthappa (10) and Raina (4) in the same over, leaving India at 38 for 2.
Rayudu then partnered with Mann, adding a 60-run stand for the third wicket, with Rayudu being the aggressive of the duo. His innings featured 2 sixes and 5 fours. However, off-spinner Saeed Ajmal provided a crucial breakthrough by dismissing Rayudu in the 12th over.
Shoaib Malik then removed Mann to keep Pakistan in the game. India’s total read 108 for 4 when Yusuf and Yuvraj joined forces.
Yusuf didn’t hold back in his knock and smashed three towering sixes, while Yuvraj kept the scoreboard moving with a steady innings at the other end. Their partnership of 42 runs in just 5.4 overs proved to be the deciding factor.
