Younis Khan reflects on loss to India in final of World Champions of Legends 2024

Pakistan Champions captain Younis Khan reflected on his team's loss in the 2024 World Championship of Legends final against India, pinpointing the absence of key partnerships in batting as the decisive factor.

Pakistan set a target of 157 runs, which Yuvraj Singh and his team successfully chased down in the final over to clinch the inaugural tournament title.

"Congratulations to India, they played like legends," Younis said. "They were spot on in all three departments.

"We planned to put up a total on the board but having partnerships is mandatory in the final. India made some partnerships which helped them to chase down the total. We couldn't replicate our batting performance of the semi-finals where we stitched some partnerships," he added.

Younis also praised the high standard of cricket throughout the competition. "There was some outstanding cricket played throughout the tournament. Before coming here, I had different expectations, but I'm proud of the effort from our team," he remarked.

India made a strong start to their run chase with openers Robin Uthappa and Ambati Rayadu setting the tone early on. Despite Pakistan dismissing Uthappa and Suresh Raina in quick succession, a pivotal 60-run partnership between Rayadu and Gurkeerat Singh helped India recover. Rayadu's aggressive 50 off 30 balls, supported by Gurkeerat's steady 34, set the platform for India's pursuit.

Yusuf Pathan's quickfire 30 off 16 balls and skipper Yuvraj Singh's unbeaten 15 off 22 balls ensured India's victory, with Irfan Pathan striking the winning shot off Sohail Tanvir. Aamer Yamin stood out for Pakistan with figures of 2/29 in a losing cause.

Earlier, Pakistan, batting first after winning the toss, finished on 156/6. Despite starts from Sharjeel Khan (12) and Sohaib Maqsood (21), the team struggled to accelerate on a slow surface. Shoaib Malik's 41 off 36 balls provided stability, but regular wickets hindered Pakistan's progress. Misbah-ul-Haq contributed 18 off 15 balls before retiring hurt, while Sohail Tanvir's quick 19* lifted Pakistan past the 150-mark.

Anureet Singh was India's standout bowler with three wickets, playing a pivotal role in restricting Pakistan's innings.