Markhors qualify for final Champions One-Day Cup after eliminator 2 washed out due to rain
The UMT Markhors qualify for final Champions One-Day Cup 2024 after their Eliminator 2 match against the Nurpur Lions was called off due to rain at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad. The weather disruption left no play possible, and as per tournament rules, the team that finished higher in the league standings progressed. The Markhors, who topped the league phase with 38 points, automatically advanced to the final.
Rain Halts Play in Faisalabad
Eliminator 2, scheduled to decide the second finalist, was eagerly anticipated, but heavy rains dashed hopes of a full contest. The UMT Markhors had been in stellar form throughout the league stage, securing three wins and only one loss, earning them the top spot in the points table. In contrast, the Nurpur Lions struggled, finishing fourth with only 12 points from one win in the group stage.
According to the rules, in the event of a washout during the play-offs, the higher-ranked team automatically qualifies for the next round. Therefore, the Markhors progressed, leaving the Lions’ campaign to end in disappointment.
Markhors to Face Panthers in the Final
With this victory by default, the Markhors are now set to face the Lake City Panthers in the tournament final on September 29, 2024, at Iqbal Stadium. The Panthers are led by Shadab Khan and boast a strong lineup, having won their previous qualifier against the Markhors earlier in the tournament. Saim Ayub’s all-round performance in that match, where he claimed five wickets and played a crucial knock, had helped the Panthers secure a comfortable victory.
Iftikhar Ahmed, likely to lead the Markhors in the absence of Mohammad Rizwan, will be eager for revenge against the Panthers in what promises to be an exciting showdown. The match start at 3:00 PM local time.
Tournament Journey
The UMT Markhors were among the most consistent teams in the group stage, boasting dominant performances with the bat and ball. Their three wins and just one loss earned them the top position in the points table. Meanwhile, the Nurpur Lions had a challenging season, securing only one victory and finishing fourth.
The Panthers, who finished second, will enter the final with high confidence, especially after defeating the Markhors in a crucial encounter earlier in the tournament.
Looking Ahead to the Final
As both teams gear up for the final, the Panthers, led by their experienced captain Shadab Khan, will rely on key players such as Saim Ayub, Haider Ali, and Mohammad Hasnain. Meanwhile, the Markhors will look to their top performers, including Iftikhar Ahmed, Fakhar Zaman, and Shahnawaz Dahani, to deliver under pressure.
FAQs
Q1: How did the UMT Markhors qualify for the final?
The UMT Markhors qualified for the final after their Eliminator 2 match against the Nurpur Lions was washed out due to rain. Since the Markhors finished higher in the group standings, they progressed to the final as per tournament rules.
Q2: What was the result of Eliminator 2?
Eliminator 2 was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to rain. The Markhors, being the higher-ranked team, advanced to the final.
Q3: Who will the Markhors face in the final?
The Markhors will face the Lake City Panthers in the final of the Champions One-Day Cup, scheduled for September 29, 2024.
Q4: Who are the captains for the final?
Shadab Khan will lead the Lake City Panthers, while Iftikhar Ahmed is expected to captain the UMT Markhors.
Q5: When and where is the final being played?
The final will take place on September 29, 2024, at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad.
