Atif Rasheed’s All-Round Brilliance Leads Finland to Record-Breaking Victory Over Bulgaria
PORT SOIF — Finland delivered a commanding performance in the ICC T20 World Cup Sub Regional Europe Qualifier C, securing a massive 125-run victory over Bulgaria. Finland’s dominance was spearheaded by Atif Rasheed, who starred with both bat and ball, ensuring his team’s largest margin of victory in T20Is to date.
Finland set an imposing total of 199/8, with contributions from Vanraaj Padhaal (58 off 39 balls) and Faheem Nellancheri (44 off 22 balls). Bulgaria’s response was dismal, managing just 74/9 in their 20 overs as Rasheed wreaked havoc with figures of 4/13, earning him the Player of the Match honors.
Finland’s innings was built around solid contributions from Vanraaj Padhaal and Faheem Nellancheri. Despite a shaky start, Finland’s middle order fired, with Amjad Sher (25 off 19) and Nellancheri propelling the score to 199/8. Bulgaria’s bowlers struggled, with only Danyal Ali (2/26) managing to contain the Finnish onslaught.
In response, Bulgaria never found momentum, losing wickets at regular intervals. Atif Rasheed’s devastating spell of 4/13 dismantled the Bulgarian lineup, with Ghulam Abbas Butt also chipping in with 1/3 in his four overs. Only Zeerak Chughtai (15) offered any resistance, as Bulgaria limped to 74/9, handing Finland a record 125-run victory.
Key Records:
- Finland’s Largest Victory in T20Is: The 125-run win surpasses their previous best margin of 82 runs against Spain.
Brief Scores:
Finland: 199/8 in 20 overs (Vanraaj Padhaal 58, Faheem Nellancheri 44; Danyal Ali 2/26)
Bulgaria: 74/9 in 20 overs (Zeerak Chughtai 15; Atif Rasheed 4/13)
Result: Finland beat Bulgaria by 125 runs.
Player of the Match: Atif Rasheed (Finland) – 4/13 (4 overs)
