There are few things in the game of cricket which can never be changed. One of those is the match-winning performances from Shahid Afridi, who never fails to make his impact on any tournament across the globe and mind you, at any stage of his career.
The all-rounder from Pakistan, who is plying his trade for Brompton Wolves delivered the much-required goods against Edmonton Wolves. As usual, he wielded his willow at a great strike rate, which made fans go crazy in the stands and the park out there.
Shahid Afridi scored unbeaten 81*:
Initially, batting first, Wolves scored a massive total of 207 runs in which they lost 5 wickets. Their innings was powered by L Simmions at the start. He smashed 59 runs from 34 balls which included 5 sixes and as many fours at a strike rate of 173.
But Wolves lost two quick wickets at the middle and a score around 200 runs seemed fare. But, then came the knock from Shahid Afridi, which powered Wolves innings at the end just like Simmons did at the start. Afridi smashed 81 runs off 40 balls which included 5 big sixes and 10 fours at a brisk strike rate of 202.5.
In reply to the chase, Edmonton Royals looked good for the chase. They scored 44 runs in first 4 overs. But in the 5th over they lost two big wickets which derailed their innings. They lost both the openers in a single over when Wahab Riaz showed his class in the middle.
Ish Sodhi Picked 3 wickets:
Mohammad Hafeez once again showcased poor display with the bat while Faf du Plessis and James Neesham tried to put them in the game. The duo knocked the bowlers to the fence more often than not to put them in the chase.
Just when things looked good for Faf du Plessis-led side, once again, Ish Sodhi made his impact on the game. After bagging 5 wickets in the first game, he picked three wickets in the second to turn the table for Shahid Afridi side.
For his unbeaten 81* runs off 40 balls and one crucial wicket of Hafeez with the ball helped him to collect the man of the match award. The win also helped them to seal the top spot in the points table.
Here is the video:
Watch @SAfridiOfficial hitting the ball out of the stadium with so much ease. Exciting atmosphere in the stadium..BOOM! #GT2019 #BWvsER pic.twitter.com/zxYersLyAz
— GT20 Canada (@GT20Canada) July 29, 2019
Brief Scores:
Brampton Wolves – 207/5; (Shahid Afridi 81*, Simmons 59; Shadab Khan 3/33)
Edmonton Royals – 180/9; (James Neesham 33, Ish Sodhi 3/32, Zahoor 3/21)