Kabul Zalmi crowned Global Zalmi 2019 champions

ISLAMABAD: Kabul Zalmi were crowned champions of the Global Zalmi League 2019 after they beat Manama Zalmi in the final at MCI Cricket Stadium in Islamabad.

In the one-sided final, Kabul dismantled Manama as they bowled them out for 70 runs in 16.4 overs. Qareebullah took 4 wickets for 13 runs and was also awarded player of the match for his brilliant performance. Shehriar scored 18 from Manama.

In reply, Kabul looked eager to win the trophy as they chased down the target in 6 overs and won the match by 10 wickets.

Waseem scored 40 runs and Nangyal scored 30.

Peshawar Zalmi chairman Javed Afridi, head coach Mohammad Akram, adviser to PM Usman Dar and Zalmi star Umer Amin handed over the trophy and prize money to the winning captain of Kabul Zalmi.

In his statement, Javed Afridi said, "It was amazing to have all of these 16 international teams in Pakistan. We hope they had a great time and we look forward to hosting them next year as well. GZL 2020 will be bigger and better as we will add 4 new teams and make a total of 20 teams."

Coach Mohammad Akram congratulated both the teams and said he was impressed by the quality of cricket which was played by these players. He also said that Peshawar Zalmi management will work on a strategy to further develop and improve cricket in their respective countries.

Chairman Afridi also thanked Deputy Mayor Islamabad Zeeshan Ali Naqvi who was also among the esteemed guests at the closing ceremony.

The competition had started on March 21, 2019 with 16 teams participating.