In a dazzling display of power-hitting, opener Wasim Iqbal guided India Seniors to a commanding seven-wicket victory over India A in the second match of the Physical Disability T20 Series at Mumbai's iconic Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday. This marks the second consecutive game where Iqbal has been the standout performer.
Iqbal's Blitzkrieg Seals The Chase
Chasing a modest target of 144, India Seniors made light work of the total, romping home in just 14.5 overs. The architect of the win was undoubtedly Wasim Iqbal, who remained not out on a scintillating 85 runs from just 45 deliveries. His innings was laced with eight boundaries and five massive sixes, showcasing clean striking and control.
Iqbal was well-supported by opening partner Vrushant Gunjal, who contributed a brisk 32 off 18 balls. The duo laid a solid foundation with a 50-run opening stand, after which Iqbal took complete charge to steer his team to victory with absolute ease. For India A, Santosh Choube was the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets for 24 runs.
India A's Fighting Total
Earlier, after being asked to bat first, India A posted 143 for 6 in their 20 overs. The innings was built on a crucial, unbroken seventh-wicket partnership. Coming together at a precarious 86 for 6, Jitendra VN (35 not out) and Akash Patil (37 not out) added a vital 57 runs to give their bowlers something to defend.
The bowling effort from India Seniors was a collective one, with Vipin, Vikrant Keni, Vikas Yadav, and Jaswant Singh all chipping in with a wicket each.
A Dream Realised at the 'Lord's of India'
Beyond the result, the overwhelming sentiment from both camps was one of gratitude and awe for the opportunity to play at the hallowed Wankhede Stadium. India A skipper Majid Margray, an all-rounder from Anantnag in Kashmir, described the experience as "surreal" and "life-changing."
"It has been an excellent experience. It was always a dream to play at the Wankhede Stadium. This is the Lord's of India and a matter of pride for all of us," said Margray. He extended thanks to the DCCI (Differently Abled Cricket Council of India) and the MCA (Mumbai Cricket Association) for the initiative, emphasizing its value as preparation for an upcoming series.
His counterpart, India Seniors captain and Mumbai local Ravindra Sante, echoed these feelings. A left-arm spinning all-rounder, Sante shared that even with prior experience at the venue, this occasion felt uniquely special.
"To be at the same venue where India won the 2011 World Cup is a big step up for all of us," Sante remarked. He also revealed offering practical advice to younger players about sighting the ball at the grand stadium, highlighting the team's focus on the forthcoming series against England.
The third and final match of this landmark series will be played on Thursday, concluding what has been a significant platform for physically disabled cricketers in the country. Rohit Jhalani from Jaipur is the head coach of the Indian disabled cricket team.
