Kuala Lumpur: Kuwait delivered a commanding performance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier A, defeating Mongolia by a staggering 160 runs at the Bayuemas Oval on August 30, 2024. Led by a brilliant 75 off 42 balls from Clinto Anto, Kuwait posted a formidable total of 210/8 in their 20 overs. In reply, Mongolia was bundled out for just 50 runs, with Shiraz Khan taking 3 wickets for 8 runs.
Kuwait’s Innings: Kuwait started strongly with opener Ravija Sandaruwan smashing 57 off 32 balls. Clinto Anto further accelerated the innings with his 75, featuring 3 fours and 6 sixes. Despite losing a few wickets in the middle overs, contributions from Mohammed Aslam (28 off 14) helped Kuwait reach a massive total. Mongolia’s bowlers struggled to contain the flow of runs, with Temuulen Amarmend and Luvsanzundui Erdenebulgan taking 2 wickets each.
Mongolia’s Response: Chasing 211, Mongolia’s batting crumbled under the pressure of Kuwait’s disciplined bowling attack. The only resistance came from Temuulen Amarmend, who top-scored with 21 off 30 balls. Shiraz Khan was the pick of the bowlers for Kuwait, claiming 3/8, while Mohammed Aslam and Yasin Patel chipped in with 2 wickets each. Mongolia was eventually bowled out for 50 in 18.3 overs.
Brief Scores:
Kuwait: 210/8 in 20 overs (Clinto Anto 75, Ravija Sandaruwan 57; Temuulen Amarmend 2/33)
Mongolia: 50 in 18.3 overs (Temuulen Amarmend 21, Shiraz Khan 3/8, Mohammed Aslam 2/6)
Result: Kuwait won by 160 runs.
Player of the Match: Clinto Anto (Kuwait)
This dominant win marks a strong start for Kuwait in their quest for T20 World Cup qualification, showcasing their prowess with both bat and ball.