The 40-year-old all-rounder’s innings was nothing short of majestic, as he bludgeoned five fours and eight towering sixes. Yusuf initially joined the crease when Johannesburg reached 77/4 in seven overs and batted at 19* off 12 balls. However, the game-changing moment came in the eighth when he took on the formidable Mohammed Amir.
With three massive sixes and a boundary, Yusuf tore apart Amir’s over, scoring 25 runs and propelling Johannesburg to 102/4 in just eight overs. His display of power hitting stunned the opposition, and he continued to unleash his fury in the ninth over, smashing two more sixes and a four against Brad Evans.
As the match climaxed in the final over, Yusuf ensured no last-minute hiccups. He dominated the bowling of Tendai Chatara, hitting a six over long-on and then a four to deep midwicket before sealing the match with another six over long-on.
Durban Qalandars had posted a challenging total of 140/4 in their 10 overs, thanks to a brilliant batting display by Andre Fletcher, who scored a quickfire 39 off 14 balls. Asif Ali (32) and Welch (24) also contributed valuable unbeaten knocks. In response, Johannesburg Buffaloes’ bowler Noor Ahmad claimed two wickets to restrict the opposition.
YUSUF PATHAN HITS 25 RUNS OFF MOHAMMAD AMIR's OVER 🔥🔥
— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) July 28, 2023
Joburg needed 67 runs from 3 overs, and Yusuf smashed Amir to all parts. 25 runs were taken from his over alone. Unreal scenes 😨 #ZimAfroT10 pic.twitter.com/9q5exZrTbg
Yusuf Pathan’s breathtaking performance secured Johannesburg’s spot in the tournament’s final and reminded fans of his match-winning capabilities with the bat. His unbeaten 80 off 26 balls was a power-hitting masterclass, leaving cricket enthusiasts in awe of his prowess.
