Imran Tahir hit couple of sixes off Venugopal Rao in the final over to finish the run-chase.
Imran Tahir stunned India Maharajas in the Legends League Cricket (LLC) on Saturday (January 22) as he smashed a match-winning half-century for World Giants. The former South African cricketer scored unbeaten 52 runs, including a couple of sixes in the final over to seal the match.
Batting first, India Maharajas posted 209/3 in 20 overs, and the pick of the innings was Naman Ojha who scored 140 runs in 69 balls. Skipper Mohammad Kaif also scored an unbeaten half-century to help them cross the 200-run mark.
But the score didn't turn out to be enough for Maharajas as they lost the match with three balls left. Kevin Pietersen gave a good start with a half-century despite not getting much support from the other end.
Eventually, it was Tahir who turned the game and won it for Giants. He smashed five sixes and three fours to secure the win with his first T20 fifty, though it won't go into the record books.
"We decided that I would take the risks and avoid singles. I was lucky to hit the sixes, get over the line. It was difficult to chase and we tried our best. I'm really pleased to contribute to the team. I'm a very happy man going back home."
"It's (the LLC) been brilliant. I wish I could have stayed more. I would like to come back again," said Tahir after his match-winning show.
Munaf Patel conceded 51 runs to take 2 wickets, while Manpreet Gony registered figures of 1/51 in his four overs. Stuart Binny was the best bowler for India Maharajas with 2/22.