Former Indian and Australian cricketers enjoyed a lively atmosphere at the World Championship of Legends, which kicked off on July 3 and will culminate with the final showdown on July 13.
Set to take place in Birmingham, the final will feature a highly anticipated clash between the champions of India and Pakistan, scheduled to commence at 9:30 PM IST on Sunday. India secured their spot in the final by overpowering the Australian champions in the second semi-final, clinching a commanding 86-run victory.
India posted a formidable total of 254/6, driven by significant contributions from Robin Uthappa (65), captain Yuvraj Singh (59), Yusuf Pathan (51), and Irfan Pathan (50). In response, the Australian team managed only 168/7, with former skipper Tim Paine top-scoring with an unbeaten 40*. India’s dominant performance ensured their place in the final, setting the stage for a thrilling championship match.
Pakistan Champions advanced to the final of the World Championship of Legends after defeating West Indies Champions in the first semi-final. Pakistan posted a competitive total of 198/8, powered by notable contributions from Kamran Akmal (46), captain Younis Khan (65), and Sohail Tanvir (33). In response, the West Indies team faltered, being bowled out for 178 runs without any significant individual contribution.
Pakistan’s 20-run victory secured their place in the final against India, setting the stage for a highly anticipated rematch reminiscent of the 2007 T20 World Cup final. Many players who featured in that historic match will be part of this final, although the atmosphere promises to be more amicable this time around.
Following the match between India and Australia, anchor Shefali Bagga posed a question to veteran cricketers about their top three batters. Harbhajan Singh, Robin Uthappa, Suresh Raina, and Aaron Finch shared their selections. Harbhajan singled out Jacques Kallis, Brian Lara, and Sachin Tendulkar as his top picks.
Raina interestingly named Virat Kohli, Joe Root, and Rohit Sharma as his picks as he named three modern legends. Uthappa named Sir Vivian Richards, Brian Lara, and Sachin Tendulkar as his picks and lastly, Finch named Ricky Ponting, Sachin Tendulkar, and Brian Lara.
