The IMC Over-40s T20 Cricket World Cup 2025 in Karachi unfolded as a landmark event that blended competitive cricket, meticulous organisation, vibrant hospitality and international

camaraderie. Pakistan, entrusted with hosting the first-ever T20-format Over-40s World Cup under the umbrella of the International Masters Cricket (IMC), delivered an impressive display both on and off the field. From the trophy unveiling to the final showdown, the tournament demonstrated Pakistan’s capability to successfully stage a global sporting event of high magnitude while ensuring security, comfort and world-class arrangements for all participating teams.

The World Cup journey began with the official trophy unveiling at a media briefing ceremony at Marriott hotel on November 21, 2025. Senior officials, including PVCA Chairman Fawad Ijaz Khan, highlighted the significance of hosting such a prestigious tournament. He acknowledged the support of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, Chief Minister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah, security agencies and sponsors whose collective effort ensured the event’s smooth planning.

The briefing set a celebratory tone, illustrating that Pakistan was ready to welcome eleven international teams. Later in the afternoon there was a Captains, Managers and Umpires meeting to review playing conditions and anti-corruption protocols, reinforcing the tournament’s emphasis on professionalism and transparency.

The Opening Ceremony at Governor House Sindh offered an elegant and culturally rich welcome. Teams, officials and dignitaries enjoyed a warm reception and dinner, surrounded by the heritage and grandeur of one of Karachi’s most iconic venues. This blend of formality and festivity reflected Pakistan’s hospitality and set the stage for the matches that would follow.

Beyond cricket, Pakistan Veterans Cricket Association ensured that foreign guests experienced the city’s charm through curated dinners at celebrated restaurants like Chaupal, Kababjees, Rosati and dinner hosted by Mayor Karachi at Frere Hall. These gatherings fostered bonding among teams, contributing to the spirit of veterans’ cricket, which values sportsmanship alongside competition.

The tournament schedule was packed, with matches held across several renowned venues including the National Bank Stadium, Southend Club Cricket Stadium, Karachi Gymkhana, NBP Sports Complex and DHA Sports Club (MKA). All Pakistan fixtures, Semi-Finals and the Final

were staged at National Bank Stadium, ensuring maximum coverage. Geo Super, myco and PVCA’s YouTube Channel brought the matches to screens nationwide and internationally, allowing fans around the world to follow their teams. The live broadcast added immense value to the event, giving veteran cricketers a global platform to showcase their potential.

Security arrangements remained a central pillar throughout the tournament. With the involvement of law enforcement agencies and intelligence units, each venue was fortified with multi-layer protocols. Team movements were carefully coordinated with escorts and training sessions and matches were monitored for safety. All non-Pakistani origin players travelled in

Bullet Proof vehicles. These measures gave confidence to international participants and formed a key part of Pakistan’s broader aim to exhibit its capability to conduct large-scale international sports in a safe environment.

Pakistan Veterans Cricket Association crafted a holistic experience for players and officials. The rest days included activities such as a golf tournament at Karachi Golf Club and a beach trip to Turtle Beach, offering international teams a chance to unwind and explore the city’s scenic spots. These excursions were not merely recreational, but they also reflected PVCA’s broader aspiration to present Pakistan as a welcoming nation.

On the field, Pakistan began their campaign with a tense three-run victory over South Africa, followed by a commanding win against Hong Kong. The first century of the tournament came from UAE’s Malik Qamar Abbas, who struck an unbeaten 100. Day three brought a record- shattering performance from Humayun Farhat, whose explosive 153 off 55 balls powered Pakistan to a massive total against the UAE. Pakistan continued their dominance, securing a semi-final berth early with an emphatic 124-run win over West Indies. Their unbeaten run

through the league stage showcased strength across batting, bowling and leadership with consistent contributions from Abdul Razzaq, Humayun Farhat, Fawad Alam, Zulfiqar Babar and others.

The round stage matches also produced memorable moments for other teams. South Africa and USA delivered strong performances to secure semi-final spots, while Australia also excelled in their matches to reach the knockout stage.

The semi-finals brought high drama. Pakistan overpowered the USA with a blistering opening partnership between Abdul Razzaq and Humayun Farhat, chasing 153 in just 10.5 overs. The Australians, meanwhile, defeated South Africa in a well-contested encounter, setting up a Pakistan–Australia final.

Meanwhile, position matches and finals for the Bowl and Plate categories kept the competition lively across multiple venues. Zimbabwe edged Canada in the Bowl Final (9 th Position), while Rest of the Gulf claimed the Plate title (5 th Position) with a powerful performance against UAE. South Africa defeated USA to claim 3 rd position. These matches ensured that every team remained actively involved right until the final stages.

Amid the cricketing spectacle, Pakistan Veterans Cricket Association crafted a holistic experience for players and officials. The rest days included activities such as a golf tournament at Karachi Golf Club and a beach trip to Turtle Beach, offering international teams a chance to unwind and explore the city’s scenic spots. These excursions were not merely recreational, they reflected PVCA’s broader aspiration to present Pakistan as a welcoming nation.

With the final set between undefeated Pakistan and a disciplined Australian side, anticipation reached its peak. Australia became the ultimate Champion after defeating Pakistan by seven wickets.

The position of 12 Teams at the tournament’s conclusion were: Australia (1st), Pakistan (2nd), South Africa (3rd), USA (4th), Rest of the Gulf (5th), UAE 6th), Rest of the World (7th ), Hong Kong China (8th), Zimbabwe (9th ),Canada (10th ),West Indies (11th ) and Sri Lanka (12th).

Humayun Farhat ended the tournament as the leading run-scorer, hit the most sixes and was deservedly named Best Batsman of the Tournament. Mark Cleary (Australia) ended as the most successful bowler of the tournament with 19 wickets in 7 innings. Additional honours: Antonnel Atwell (West Indies) was named Player of the Tournament, Khalid Qureshi (Hong Kong) was awarded Best Wicket-keeper and Harshad Ghodke (Rest of the World) was declared Best Fielder.

The closing ceremony at Marriott Hotel marked the conclusion of nearly two weeks of top-tier veterans’ cricket. Sindh’s Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah graced the occasion as chief guest. The IMC Over-40s T20 World Cup 2025 will be remembered for the PVCA’s ability to stage a global event with efficiency and heartfelt hospitality, leaving a lasting impression on all who participated. At the closing ceremony a team of the tournament was alsi announced based on the performances of players during the World Cup. The Team announced was: 1.Humayun Farhat(Pakistan), 2. Suneth Sampath (Sri Lanka),3. Fawad Alam (Pakistan), 4. Muhammad Hassan Arif (Rest of Gulf), 5. Stephan Joubert (South Africa), 6. Choudhry Imran (Rest of Gulf), 7. Moner Dar (Hong Kong China), 8. Arch Harley (Zimbabwe), 9. Reinhardt Strydom (South Africa), 10. Mark Cleary (Australia), 11. Asif Mohammed (Rest of World), 12. Antonnel Atwell (West Indies).