Red Premier League Season 2: Abid Mushtaq stars, Athwas India XI clinch semifinal berth

Srinagar, Sep 24: Athwas India XI booked their place in the semifinals of the Red Premier League Season 2 with a nail-biting 4-run win over Global Dadoo Titans in a high-scoring quarterfinal at Bakshi Stadium, where all-rounder Abid Mushtaq starred with both bat and ball on Wednesday.

As per a statement, Athwas India XI posted a formidable 197/6 in their 20 overs, with Abid Mushtaq’s explosive 52 off just 27 balls, embellished by five fours and three sixes, powering his side to a challenging total.

He was ably supported by Yawer Hassan, who anchored the innings with a crucial 66 off 45 balls, ensuring Athwas India XI had the runs on the board.

Global Dadoo Titans responded with valiant intent, paced by Imtiyaz Lefty’s swashbuckling 53 off 35 and Gowhar Rashid’s breezy 36 off 21. However, Athwas India XI’s bowlers held their nerve in the death overs, with Abid Mushtaq delivering a game-changing spell of 4 for 28.

Abid Mushtaq emerged as the undisputed star, delivering in both departments: blazing fast with the bat and weaving magic with the ball, picking up 4 wickets in his four allotted overs [amazonaws]. His all-round brilliance led Athwas India XI’s charge and earned him the Player of the Match award, as well as the top MVP spot with a 12.36 rating.

With only 5 runs separating the teams going into the final over, tension peaked as Global Dadoo Titans fell just short despite their aggressive chase. Tight fielding and disciplined bowling from Athwas India XI sealed the victory and their place in the next stage, proving their mettle in pressure situations.

This pulsating quarter-final, played in front of an electrified crowd, will be remembered for its nerve-shredding finish and the spectacular emergence of all-round heroics. The Red Premier League Season 2 has set the bar high; fans can expect even more fireworks in the upcoming semi-finals.