A thrilling contest for the Independence Cup found Pakistan triumphant with a 33-run victory over the visiting World XI team.

Although the green shirts began their innings strong, the pace of play seemed to slow down as the game progressed, with the team piling up a steady 183 runs for the international side to chase.

The World XI also opened on strong footing, but as crucial wickets fell, the game changed and suddenly the confident side was found floundering as Pakistani bowlers struck again and again.

The successful completion of the much-awaited tournament, which sought to revive international cricket in the country, was as much a victory for cricketing fans and the sport as it was for the national team.

Scenes from Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium showed charged spectators holding up placards praising the World XI team and highlighting Pakistan's victory over terrorism.

Passions ran high on the field, with big hits and big wickets causing a flurry of excitement.

Man of the Match Ahmed Shehzad today became the first Pakistani cricketer to smash three back-to-back sixes in the T20 format.