Bradford Riders – Jinnah and Star Section Champions Season 2023.

If there was ever a match not to be missed it was today. Indus Bradford and Bradford Riders put on one of the best finals this season, the game went to the final over. The day started with Indus Bradford getting of to a good start with 146 for 5 in the 29th over but Bradford Riders fought back to limit Indus Bradford to 163, Indus lost their last 5 wickets for just 17 runs. At first it seemed to be a big ask for Bradford Riders as they lost their first five wickets for just 26 runs in the 13th over. But an innings from man of the match Waseem Liaqat (77 runs in 55 balls) turned the game in Bradford Riders favour but was bowled out when the team was on 103 for 7 needing another 60 with 3 wicket in hand. Indus Bradford felt confident they had secured the title but a late flurry of runs from Muhammad Umar (28 runs in 32 balls) got Bradford Riders back in the game. In the final 2 overs Bradford Riders required 10 runs with 1 wicket in hand, Indus Bradford only conceded 2 runs in the 2nd last over with Bradford Riders requiring 8 of the last over. On the first ball of the final over they ran two runs, the next ball was called a no ball and a free hit, The free hit was a wide ball. The next ball was a dot ball, the winning runs went to long on for a four and Bradford Riders pitch invasion started with fireworks in the background.

Having watched the game throughout the day, the second half of the game was probably the loudest match I have experience, no need for the music today to celebrate of big sixes or the loss of wickets. Both clubs supporters were sat on the opposite side of the ground with neutrals watching from the top end of the ground. Both teams deserved the final and good luck to their season 2023 campaign in the Crescent Section.