Kuala Lumpur, August 22, 2024: Malaysia secured a 5-wicket win against Kuwait in the 2nd match of the Malaysia Tri-Nation T20I Series at the Selangor Turf Club. The match was dominated by Malaysia’s Syed Aziz, who delivered a stellar all-round performance to guide his team to victory.
Match Report:
Kuwait Innings: After being put in to bat, Kuwait struggled against Malaysia’s disciplined bowling attack. They were bowled out for just 70 runs in 15.5 overs. Mohammed Aslam (16) and Meet Bhavsar (14) were the only batters to reach double figures as Malaysia’s Pavandeep Singh claimed 4/16 and Muhammad Amir took 3/20. Syed Aziz contributed with the ball as well, taking 1/8 and setting a new record for Malaysia by taking 4 catches in the innings.
Malaysia Innings: In reply, Malaysia faced early pressure, losing 5 wickets while chasing the modest target. However, Syed Aziz anchored the innings with a composed 35 off 34 balls, ensuring Malaysia reached 71/5 in 15.2 overs to secure the win. Adnan Idrees was the standout bowler for Kuwait, taking 2/16.
Key Performances:
- Syed Aziz: A match-winning performance with 35 runs, 1 wicket for 8 runs, and 4 catches, setting a record for the most catches by a fielder in an innings for Malaysia.
- Pavandeep Singh: Led Malaysia’s bowling with figures of 4/16, dismantling Kuwait’s batting lineup.
- Muhammad Amir: Supported the bowling attack with 3/20, ensuring Kuwait couldn’t post a competitive total.
Brief Scores:
Kuwait: 70 all out in 15.5 overs (Mohammed Aslam 16, Pavandeep Singh 4/16, Muhammad Amir 3/20)
Malaysia: 71/5 in 15.2 overs (Syed Aziz 35, Adnan Idrees 2/16)
Result:Malaysia won b 5 wickets
Player of the Match: Syed Aziz on his 35 runs with the bat and 4 important catches.
Malaysia’s victory was largely driven by Syed Aziz, who excelled in all departments. Kuwait’s inability to build partnerships left them with a below-par total, which Malaysia chased down despite a few stumbles. This low-scoring game also marked the lowest match aggregate (141) between Malaysia and Kuwait in T20Is.