Pakistan thrash India to reach West Asia Baseball Cup final

Pakistan’s national baseball team booked their place in the final of the West Asia Baseball Cup after defeating India by a dominant score of 14-1 in the semifinal held Tuesday in Karaj, Iran.

The match was called after seven innings under the mercy rule due to Pakistan’s commanding lead, which left no chance for India to mount a comeback.

Pakistan asserted control early, scoring five runs each in the first and third innings. Third baseman Hussain played a key role in the offense, recording two hits, two RBIs, and four runs. Center fielder Wasim Akram and designated hitter Muhammad Rehan also contributed with a combined four hits and four RBIs.

Starting pitcher Muhammad Haris delivered 4.1 innings, conceding just one run while striking out four Indian batters. Relievers Syed Muhib Shah and Hussain Imam combined for five strikeouts over 2.2 scoreless innings to close out the game.

India struggled throughout, committing 10 fielding errors and allowing eight walks. Their only run came in the first inning, and they managed just four hits in total.

Pakistan will face Palestine in the final on Wednesday as they look to defend their title.

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Following the victory, Pakistan Federation Baseball President Syed Fakhar Ali Shah dedicated the win to the armed forces of Pakistan in a video message.