Ntokozo Magongo
MBABANE – Cricket team, Pak XI took home a lucrative E20 000 after being crowned the champions of the EBM T20 League.
They were handed the cheque by the Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima on Sunday at Malkerns Country Club during the grand closing of the league. They beat Al Barkat to take the trophy home and the E20k.
Minister Nzima show his support remaining in attendance throughout the game, showing his support for local cricket and the growing popularity of the EBM T20 League in the company of Eswatini Sport and Recreation Council (ESRC) Chief Executive Officer Darius Dlomo.
According to the Eswatini Cricket Association (ECA), Pak XI emerged victorious over Al Barkat in the final, clinching the championship title with a commanding 6-wicket win.
“The match, which was full of excitement, saw Farooq Gorua lead his team to victory with an outstanding century, securing both the title and the coveted E20 000 prize. Winning the toss, Al Barkat opted to bat first, setting a competitive total of 175/9 in their full 20 overs.
Pak XI, known for their resilience, began the chase with determination. The innings was highlighted by an exceptional knock from Farooq Gorua, whose 100 off 60 balls proved to be the difference. His brilliant century anchored the chase and guided his team towards the target in an intense final overs’ battle. Despite the pressure mounting as the game neared its conclusion, Pak XI reached the required total in 19.2 overs with six wickets remaining, securing a thrilling win,” reads a statement from ECA.
Farooq Gorua’s remarkable performance not only earned him the title of Man of the Match but also saw him crowned Best Batsman of the Tournament.
On the bowling front, Minhaj Khojbhariya was recognized as the Best Bowler of the Tournament for his exceptional ability to contain runs and take wickets at key moments, making him an invaluable asset for his team.
The league, which captured the attention of fans and sports enthusiasts alike, was co-sponsored by Easy Buy and Century Fashions Eswatini. Their support was pivotal in making the tournament a resounding success, elevating the profile of cricket in the country and ensuring a thrilling competition from start to finish.
