- May 7, 2025
MLT vs EST (2nd T20I) – Highlights
In a scintillating display of audacious strokeplay and astute captaincy, Arslan Amjad led Estonia to a heart-pounding last-ball victory against Malta in the 2nd T20I of the Estonia tour of Malta, held on May 6, 2025, in Marsa. Chasing a formidable target of 203, Estonia triumphed by four wickets with zero balls remaining, thanks to Amjad’s all-round brilliance, underscoring the quintessential essence of T20 drama.
Malta, having been put into bat, posted an intimidating 202/9 in their 20 overs. Their innings was marked by intermittent bursts of aggression, most notably from Mehboob Ali, whose blistering 58 off just 25 balls, laced with 7 fours and 4 sixes, anchored their assault. He was ably supported by Jaspal Singh (40 off 30) and Priyan Pushparajan (35 off 27), as Malta threatened to cross the 210-run threshold. However, crucial breakthroughs by Estonia’s bowlers at regular intervals curtailed what could have been a more daunting total.
Among the Estonian bowlers, none shone brighter than Arslan Amjad, who exhibited both guile and control in his 3-over spell, returning figures of 3/26. Pranay Gheewala also made a notable impact, claiming 3/33 and effectively dismantling Malta’s top order. While Malta struck at over 10 runs per over, Estonia’s disciplined spells during the middle overs ensured the chase remained within reach.
Estonia’s pursuit of 203 began on a jittery note, losing Habib Khan early. However, Steffan Gooch’s counterattacking 57 off 33 balls galvanized the innings, establishing momentum. Gooch was particularly ruthless against the seamers, crafting boundaries with consummate ease. His efforts were followed by a minor collapse triggered by Pushparajan’s canny bowling, who claimed 3 wickets to push Estonia onto the back foot at 73/4.
But it was the resurgent partnership between Arslan Amjad and Stuart Hook that turned the tide. Amjad’s calculated belligerence, illustrated by his 64 off 34 balls, including six towering sixes, was the bedrock of Estonia’s recovery. His innings was a masterclass in selective aggression—dispatching errant deliveries with disdain while rotating strike adeptly. Hook’s enterprising 51 off 30 provided the perfect foil, blending finesse with power as the duo added a game-defining stand.
Despite losing both set batters in the dying overs, Estonia held their nerve. With 7 runs needed off the final over and 3 off the last 2 balls, Elias Hasan dramatically sealed the win with a six, launching the final delivery over long-on and sparking jubilant celebrations.
The match was a quintessential advertisement for T20 cricket—replete with fluctuating fortunes, individual brilliance, and an unforgettable finish. Arslan Amjad’s match-winning all-round display rightfully earned him the Player of the Match, as Estonia not only leveled the series but also etched a memorable chapter in their cricketing journey.
This pulsating encounter in Marsa will long be remembered for its nerve-wracking climax, exemplifying how cricket’s shortest format can produce timeless thrillers fueled by both grit and flair.
Malta vs Estonia Scoreboard
Malta – 202/9 (20.0)
Estonia – 203/6 (20.0)
Result – Estonia won by 4 wickets
Player of the match – Arslan Amjad
Arslan Amjad
MLT vs EST Playing XIs
Malta | Varun Prasath Thamotharam (c), Rockey Dianish (wk), David Marks, Waseem Abbas, Shrijay Patel, Jaspal Singh, Jaswinder Singh, Darshit Patankar, Priyan Pushparajan, Eldhose Mathew, Mehboob Ali |
Estonia | Arslan Amjad (c), Marko Vaik (wk), Stuart Hook, Rupam Baruah, Steffan Gooch, Pranay Gheewala, Aditya Paul, Elias Hasan, Ali Masood, Sahil Chauhan, Habib Khan |
Disclaimer: These Match highlights reflect the author’s insights and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider the points discussed and form their own conclusions.
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