Qatar vs Saudi Arabia, 1st Match - July 18, 2025

Match Summary

In a nail-biting finish, Qatar clinched a thrilling 1-run victory over Saudi Arabia in Doha. The match saw key contributions from Mohammad Ikramullah Khan and Mirza Mohammed Baig for Qatar, while Waji Ul Hassan's all-round performance for Saudi Arabia stood out. The bowlers from both teams kept the game alive until the final ball.

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Detailed Match Highlights

Toss Decision

Saudi Arabia won the toss and opted to bowl first, putting Qatar in to bat.

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Qatar Innings

Qatar posted a total of 101 runs in 17.4 overs, losing all their wickets.

• Key Performers with the Bat:

  • Mohammad Ikramullah Khan scored a steady 30 runs off 30 balls, hitting 5 boundaries.
  • Mirza Mohammed Baig contributed a quick 26 runs off 16 balls, with 3 fours and 1 six, showcasing his intent to accelerate the innings.

• Bowling Highlights for Saudi Arabia:

  • Waji Ul Hassan delivered a stellar performance, taking 3 wickets for 14 runs in his 2.4 overs.
  • Abdul Waheed Ghaffar and Ishtiaq Ahmad chipped in with 2 wickets each, keeping Qatar under pressure.

• Notable Fielding Moments:

  • Waji Ul Hassan was involved in two crucial catches and also took a brilliant caught-and-bowled dismissal.
  • Ishtiaq Ahmad executed a sharp run-out to dismiss Mirza Mohammed Baig.

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Saudi Arabia Innings

Chasing 102, Saudi Arabia fought hard but managed to score only 100 runs in their 20 overs, falling short by 1 run.

• Key Performers with the Bat:

  • Abdul Waheed Ghaffar top-scored with 31 runs off 24 balls, hitting 4 boundaries.
  • Waji Ul Hassan contributed 27 runs off 30 balls, providing stability in the middle order.

• Bowling Highlights for Qatar:

  • Muhammad Asim was exceptional, conceding only 9 runs in his 4 overs and taking 1 wicket with an economy of just 2.2.
  • Mirza Mohammed Baig and Mujeeb ur Rehman both picked up 2 wickets each, applying constant pressure on Saudi Arabia's chase.

• Notable Fielding Moments:

  • Shahzaib Jamil grabbed two key catches, including one to dismiss Zain Ul Abidin.
  • Daniel Louis was instrumental in a crucial run-out to dismiss Abdul Wahid during the final overs.

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Key Stats and Highlights

• Best Batting Performances:

  • Mohammad Ikramullah Khan (30 runs, 5 fours)
  • Abdul Waheed Ghaffar (31 runs, 4 fours)

• Best Bowling Performances:

  • Waji Ul Hassan: 3/14 in 2.4 overs (Saudi Arabia)
  • Muhammad Asim: 1/9 in 4 overs (Qatar)

• Close Moments:

  • The match came down to the last over, with Saudi Arabia needing 2 runs to win. However, Qatar held their nerve to seal a dramatic victory.

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Player of the Match

Muhammad Asim was awarded the Player of the Match for his exceptional bowling spell, which included 1 wicket for just 9 runs in 4 overs, ensuring Qatar defended a low total.

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Match Insights

1. Tight Defense by Qatar: Qatar's bowlers delivered under pressure, defending a low score of 101 with disciplined bowling and sharp fielding.
2. Waji Ul Hassan's All-round Brilliance: Waji's 3 wickets and 27-run knock almost took Saudi Arabia over the line.
3. Partnerships: Small but impactful contributions from Mohammad Ikramullah Khan and Mirza Mohammed Baig helped Qatar reach a defendable total.
4. Heartbreak for Saudi Arabia: Despite a strong start by Abdul Waheed Ghaffar, they faltered in the middle overs and couldn't cross the finish line.

Final Result

Qatar won by 1 run in a thrilling encounter, setting the tone for an exciting series ahead!