Cedar delivered a dominant performance in Match 3 of the Empower Super League season 2, outclassing Sceptre by an astonishing 147 runs. The commanding victory showcased a powerful batting display, complemented by lethal bowling that left Sceptre reeling.
Cedar’s Batting Brilliance
Batting first for a second consecutive game, Cedar unleashed a batting masterclass, amassing a formidable 240/5 in their 20 overs. The foundation was laid by an explosive opening partnership, with Adam Essa hammering 34 off just 18 balls at a strike rate of 188.89. His partner, Hamza Qureshi, was even more destructive, smashing 44 runs in 21 deliveries, including eight boundaries.
Talha Khanji and Muhammad Batla carried the momentum forward, contributing 39 and 48 runs, respectively. Batla anchored the innings with a composed knock, hitting six fours and a six at a steady strike rate of 120. Abdul Ghaffar provided a late flourish, scoring an unbeaten 22 off 13 balls, ensuring Cedar finished with a daunting total.
Sceptre’s bowlers struggled to contain Cedar’s relentless onslaught, with Hamza Rauf (2/31) and Uzban (2/55) picking up the only meaningful breakthroughs. However, the high number of extras conceded, including 24 wides and 12nbs, added to Sceptre’s woes.
Sceptre’s Collapse
Chasing a mammoth target of 241, Sceptre crumbled under pressure, folding for just 93 runs in 12.4 overs. Cedar’s bowlers, led by Muhammad Batla and Huzaifa Habib, dismantled Sceptre’s batting lineup with clinical precision.
Sceptre’s only glimmer of hope came from Burair Ali, who fought valiantly with a 44-run knock off 33 balls, featuring six boundaries and a six. However, he found little support from the rest of the lineup, as wickets fell in quick succession.
Muhammad Batla starred with the ball, claiming 4/21 in his three overs, while Huzaifa Habib matched his feat with a brilliant 4/13 in just 2.4 overs. Talha Khanji and Jabeer Raza chipped in with a wicket each, ensuring there was no escape for Sceptre.
A Statement Victory for Cedar
Cedar’s emphatic win not only boosts their net run rate significantly but also establishes them as strong contenders in the Empower Super League season 2. With a perfect blend of aggressive batting and disciplined bowling, they have sent a clear message to their competitors. Meanwhile, Sceptre will need to regroup and address their shortcomings quickly if they hope to stay in contention as the league progresses.
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