Pakistan’s off-spinner Ajmal claims four wickets to ensure World Stars victory over Qatar Stars in the Qatar Cricket Fiesta

Saeed Ajmal claimed four wickets for 29 runs as World Stars pipped Qatar Stars by two runs in the Qatar Cricket Fiesta held at Asian Town Stadium on Friday night.
A decent crowd watched the T20 match  organised by Pro Events in which several current and international stars from India, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, England and Bangladesh took part.
Chasing 146 for victory, Qatar Stars appeared well on course to victory over the Shahid Afridi-led World Stars when Imraz and Lakshmipathy Balaji provided some late fireworks after a middle-order collapse.
But off-spinner Ajmal put paid to their hopes by dismissing Taimoor for 10 and number 10 batsman Balaji for 18, which came off 11 balls with the help of two sixes. Imraz remained unbeaten on 20 off 18 balls along with last man Nadeem who made four off three balls after former Pakistan wicket-keeper Umar Akmal had given the side a fast start with 22 runs followed by an entertaining 21 off 14 balls by Faisal.
Ajmal also removed middle-order batsmen Asad for one and Iqbal for 10 earlier to dent Qatar’s Stars’ hopes before Balaji and Imraz steadied the ship.
However, the former Pakistan bowler had the last laugh and the dismissal of Balaji ensured a narrow win for World Stars XI.
Earlier, Afghan star Nowroz Mangal slammed 42 off 23 balls as World Stars made 145 for 7. Mangal hit three sixes in his knock before setting the stage for Afridi who blasted 28 off 19 balls with two sixes.
Ilyas with 29 and retired South African star Herschelle Gibbs with 13 were the other World Stars batsmen who made valuable contributions. Ajmal was declared the man of the match.

Chasing 146 for victory, Qatar Stars appeared well on course to victory when Imraz and Balaji provided some late fireworks after a middle-order collapse



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