LEICESTER, July 25, 2025 — In a commanding performance at Grace Road, Leicester, the Pakistan Champions handed South Africa Champions their first defeat of the World Championship of Legends 2025, sealing a 31-run win in a thrilling ninth match of the tournament.
Batting first after South Africa elected to field, Pakistan posted an imposing total of 198 for 5 in their 20 overs. Umar Amin led the charge with a fluent 58 off 42 balls, anchoring the innings through the middle overs and earning the Player of the Match award. Veteran all-rounder Shoaib Malik provided crucial support with an unbeaten 46 off 34 balls, while Asif Ali’s quickfire 23 off 11 and Aamer Yamin’s explosive 11 off just 4 deliveries helped boost the total in the death overs.
In response, South Africa Champions faltered early in their chase. The Pakistani bowlers maintained tight control over proceedings, striking at regular intervals to derail any momentum. Mohammad Hafeez turned back the clock with an excellent spell, taking 2 wickets for just 21 runs in his four overs. Sohail Tanvir also impressed with 2 for 13, while spinners Imad Wasim and Shoaib Malik chipped in with a wicket apiece.
South Africa’s resistance came late, with Morne van Wyk playing a valiant knock of 44 not out off 20 balls, and Wayne Parnell adding 21 off 9. However, it was too little too late as the team finished on 167 for 9, falling short by 31 runs.
The match not only ended South Africa’s unbeaten run in the tournament but also propelled Pakistan to second place on the points table, revitalizing their campaign and sending a strong message to the rest of the competition.
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Pakistan Champions’ captain Shoaib Malik, speaking after the win, praised his side’s balanced performance. “We showed character today — with the bat, ball, and in the field. Umar’s innings was crucial, and the bowlers delivered under pressure,” he said.
The result sets up a high-stakes end to the group stage as both teams aim to lock in semi-final spots in what has become a fiercely competitive tournament featuring some of the most iconic names in cricket history.