Global Distribution survived a stiff challenge from Opener XI before registering a two-wicket victory in the semi-finals of the 14th Dulsco Ramadan Cricket tournament at the Zabeel Park Cricket Ground, Dubai, on Friday night.

In the final, Global Distribution will lock horns with defending champions Multiplex International.

In the last-four clash, Opener XI captain Yaseer Kaleem opted to bat first and his decision backfired immediately with opener Waqas Ahmed (2) falling to Murtaza Ali in the first over. It was a struggle thereafter for Openers with Rashid Mohammed rocking the innings with a four-wicket burst.

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Rashid removed Atif Butt (1), Yaseer Kaleen (9), and Bhargav Kashta in quick succession as Opener XI were struggling at 15-4. Then Mohammed Kaif (36 off 43 balls) and Danish Farooqui (16 off 20 balls) managed to take the score to 50 before Danish departed.

Kaif stayed on to take the score to 74 when Rashid returned to dismiss him. Opener XI were then bundled out for 88 in 17.5 overs with Tariq and Shauqat claiming two wickets each.

Global Distribution faced a harrowing time in the run chase. They lost eight wickets before overcoming the target in 17.1 overs.

After Waqas Ali (20) and Boota Ahmed (17) had kept Global Distribution in the hunt, Waheed Ahmed remained not out on 12 to guide the team home.