Did Iqbal Shine Again for India Seniors in the Physical Disability T20 Series?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Wasim Iqbal's remarkable innings led India Seniors to victory.
- Historic significance of Wankhede Stadium highlighted by both captains.
- Experience gained in this series is invaluable for young players.
- Inclusivity in sports celebrated through the Physical Disability T20 Series.
- Partnerships were key in both innings.
Mumbai, Dec 17 (NationPress) In a remarkable display of talent, opener Wasim Iqbal once again stole the spotlight with the bat during the Physical Disability T20 Series at the Wankhede Stadium. He achieved an impressive unbeaten score of 85 runs off just 45 deliveries, propelling the India Seniors to successfully chase down the target of 143 runs set by India A on Wednesday.
After winning the toss and opting to bat first, India A managed to post a modest total of 143/6 in their allotted 20 overs. Key contributions came from Jitendra VN and Akash Patil, who both remained not out with scores of 35 and 37 respectively, forming a crucial partnership of 57 runs for the unbroken seventh wicket after their team found itself in a challenging position at 86/6.
In response, the India Seniors cruised through the chase, largely thanks to Iqbal’s explosive innings, featuring eight boundaries and five sixes. He opened the innings with a solid partnership of 50 runs alongside Vrushant Gunjal, who contributed 32 runs. The chase concluded comfortably in just 14.5 overs.
India A's captain, Majid Margray, expressed his excitement about playing at such a historic venue. “Playing at Wankhede Stadium has always been a dream for me and my team. It’s a surreal experience,” he shared. “To be in the same dressing room as cricket legends is a significant moment for all of us. We are grateful to DCCI and MCA for this initiative.
“Although we lost both matches, this experience is invaluable for our young talents as we prepare for the upcoming series,” Margray added.
His sentiments were echoed by the opposing captain, Sante, who noted the unique experience of playing at Wankhede. “As a Mumbai native, I’ve played here before, but this opportunity feels truly special. It’s an honor to play at the venue where India clinched the 2011 World Cup,” he remarked.
“We have young players eager to learn, and I’ve been guiding them on how to adapt to the conditions here. The upcoming series against England will be a great opportunity to build on this experience,” Sante concluded.
The third and final match of the series is scheduled for Thursday.
Brief scores:
India A: 143/6 in 20 overs (Akash Patil 37 not out, Jitendra VN 35 not out; Vipin 1-15, Vikrant Keni 1-10) lost to India Seniors: 144/3 in 14.5 overs (Wasim Iqbal 85 not out, Vrushant Gunjal 32; Santosh Choube 3-24) by seven wickets.