The Pakistan Champions and South Africa Champions clashed in the final of the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 at Edgbaston. Pakistan Champions, after winning the toss, elected to bat first.
Pakistan's innings got off to a brisk start, but they soon faced a setback with the early dismissal of Kamran Akmal for just 2 runs. However, Sharjeel Khan counter-attacked, anchoring the innings with a superb 76 off 44 deliveries, including 9 fours and 4 sixes. He dominated the South African bowlers, particularly Aaron Phangiso, whom he smashed for 22 runs in one over, including two sixes and two fours. Mohammad Hafeez supported Sharjeel with a quick 17 off 10 balls before falling to Wayne Parnell.
Hardus Viljoen returned to the attack and made a crucial breakthrough by dismissing the dangerous Sharjeel Khan. Viljoen trapped Sharjeel plumb in front with a skiddy delivery, halting Pakistan Champions' momentum slightly.
After Sharjeel's departure, Shoaib Malik attempted to hold the innings together with a steady 20 off 25 balls, but the scoring rate dipped. Wayne Parnell also contributed by dismissing Shoaib Malik for 20. However, Umar Amin and Asif Ali launched a late assault, revitalizing the innings. Amin remained unbeaten on 36 off 19 balls, smashing a couple of sixes, while Asif Ali contributed 28 off 15 balls, including two sixes and a boundary. The final five overs yielded 64 runs, propelling Pakistan to a commanding total of 195/5 in their 20 overs. Asif Ali upped the ante with some clean hitting, including a massive six over long-on and a powerful four through deep mid-wicket.
Among the South African bowlers, Wayne Parnell and Hardus Viljoen were the most effective, each taking two wickets. Duanne Olivier picked up one wicket but proved to be expensive. Pakistan Champions set South Africa Champions a stiff target of 196 runs, promising a thrilling second innings.