Antwerp | March 29, 2025 — Cricket fans in Antwerp were treated to a thrilling T20 match where the reserve team of Antwerp Cricket Club narrowly defeated Anderlecht Cricket Club by 3 wickets in a game that stayed tense until the 19th over.
The match was part of the pre-season friendlies and provided an excellent opportunity for Antwerp's reserve team to gain valuable experience against competitive opponents.
Anderlecht’s Explosive Start… Followed by Collapse
Anderlecht started strong with Shahmeer Nawaz smashing 26 runs off 12 balls, including three sixes. Arafat Khan (24 off 19) and Usama Butt (26 off 24) also made solid contributions.
However, the innings fell apart rapidly. Shokran Nasir from Antwerp was unstoppable, taking 4 wickets for just 14 runs. Anderlecht crumbled from 101/4 to 119 all out in 17.5 overs — far below what they would have aimed for.
Antwerp’s Chase: Calm Yet Tense
Chasing 120 seemed manageable, but Anderlecht fought back. Mirwais anchored the innings with a composed 41 off 44 balls. Despite quick wickets falling, Antwerp kept the run rate steady.
Usama Butt starred again, this time with the ball, taking an impressive 5 wickets for 14 runs. He brought Anderlecht back into the game, but Junaid (18* off 15) saw Antwerp home in the 19th over.
Key Performers
- Shokran Nasir (Antwerp) – 4/14 (4 overs)
- Usama Butt (Anderlecht) – 5/14 (4 overs) & 26 runs
- Mirwais (Antwerp) – 41 (44 ballen)
Unofficial Player of the Match: Usama Butt – for an excellent all-round performance despite the loss.
Match Summary
| Team | Score |
|---|---|
| Anderlecht CC | 119 all out (17.5) |
| Antwerp CC (Reserve) | 120/7 (18.2) |
| Result | Antwerp won by 3 wickets |
| Format | T20 |
| Venue | Antwerp |
| Date | 29 March 2025 |
| Toss | Won by Antwerp |
This pre-season friendly match highlighted the importance of early-season cricket to help develop young and upcoming players. Antwerp walk away with the win, but Usama Butt’s heroics will be remembered. On to the next encounter!