Pakistan stormed into the semi-finals of the Blind Cricket World Cup after beating Sri Lanka by 224 runs at the YMCA Cricket Ground Cape Town, South Africa yesterday.

Batting first, Pakistan got off to a terrible start as in-form Muhammad Jamil was dismissed for just one run. It became worse when Muhammad Ishfaq (18) followed suit, leaving Pakistan on 49-2.

The tide turned for Pakistan when Haroon Khan and Anees Javed knocked the ball all over the ground for a 131-run stand. Javed got out after making 72 off 44 with 12 boundaries.

Muhammad Akram picked up the reigns and along with Haroon, put 209 more runs on the board – with both scoring centuries – to take the match away from Sri Lanka.

Akram departed after a scintillating 55-ball 114, which included a six and 19 boundaries. Pakistan ended up scoring 418 in their 40 overs for the loss of three wickets. Haroon remained unbeaten on 180, studded with a six and 20 boundaries while Zafar Iqbal scored 10 runs.

In reply, Sri Lanka were bowled out for 194 in their 40 overs. Dinesh Mathugama scored 57 while Zeeshan Abbasi claimed three wickets. Israr Ahmed and Harook picked up two wickets as well.

Defending champions Pakistan now have 15 points from five games, courtesy of a 100% unbeaten record.

Meanwhile, in the other match, India defeated Australia by nine wickets to also progress to the semi-finals.
(The Express Tribune)