Bhatkal: All rounder Mahesh inspired Azaad to a 28-run victory against Lion in the Pre-Quaterfinal match of Madeena T20 cup here at Kola Ground on Saturday.

Mahesh hit a 26-ball 24 as Azaad accelerated to 144/9 in testing conditions and then claimed 3-16 to bowl out Lion for 116 in 19 overs.

Azaad’s Waseem contributed 25, while Inayat 21.

Fast bowlers Dawood also claimed four wicket by conceding just 27 runs.

For lion, Manal and Fusair shared apartnership of 50 runs for the third wicket which went into vain.

Azaad won the match by 28 runs and qualify for the Quarterfinals.

Brief Scores:

Azaad: 144/9 in 20 overs (Waseem 25, Mahesh 24, Inayat 21, Fahad Malik 8/2).

Lion: 116 allout in 19 overs (Manal 25, Fusair 26, Mahesh 16/3, Dawood 27/4).