Wasim Iqbal Shines as India B Defeats India A in T20 Series Opener

India B Triumphs Over India A in T20 Series

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], December 17: In a stellar performance, opener Wasim Iqbal scored an impressive 66 runs off 51 deliveries, leading India B to a commanding 83-run victory against India A in the inaugural match of the three-match Physical Disability T20 Series held at the Wankhede Stadium.

Choosing to bowl first, India A faced challenges in containing the batting prowess of India B, with Iqbal setting the tone. He formed a solid partnership of 77 runs for the second wicket alongside Vikrant Keni. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Iqbal's innings featured five boundaries and seven sixes. Jeetendra VN was the standout bowler for India A, claiming 2 wickets for 23 runs.

GS Shiva also made a notable contribution for India B, scoring 41 runs, helping the team finish with a total of 170 runs for the loss of nine wickets in their allotted 20 overs. In reply, India A struggled significantly, losing wickets consistently. Only Akash Patil, batting at number eight, managed to put up a fight with his score of 30 runs.

Ultimately, India A was dismissed for a mere 87 runs in 16.5 overs, with Ganesh Pisal emerging as the top bowler for India B, taking 4 wickets for 25 runs.

The next two matches of the series are scheduled for Wednesday (December 17) and Thursday (December 18), serving as a preparatory platform for upcoming international competitions.

This match marked a significant occasion for many players at the historic Wankhede Stadium, renowned for being the venue where India clinched the 2011 World Cup under the captaincy of Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has played a crucial role in supporting this series, which is affiliated with the BCCI, enhancing the event's significance.

Ajinkya Naik, President of the Mumbai Cricket Association, stated, “MCA has consistently been at the forefront of progressive initiatives aimed at enhancing the sport. Hosting the Physically Disabled T20 Cricket Series is another significant milestone in our legacy. We remain dedicated to supporting such initiatives and promoting inclusive cricket, where talent, determination, and passion are paramount.”

Brief Scores: India B: 170-9 in 20 overs (Wasim Iqbal 66, GS Shiva 41, Vikrant Keni 23; Jeetendra VN 2-23) defeated India A 87 in 16.5 overs (Akash Patil 30; Ganesh Pisal 4-25) by 83 runs.