It has been nearly a decade since both Karachi Blues and Karachi Whites qualified for the Super Eight round of the National T20 Cup, rekindling one of Pakistan domestic cricket’s most storied rivalries.

The rare double qualification by Karachi’s two representative sides has stirred memories of their last notable clash at this stage — the 2016 National T20 Cup final, where Karachi Blues narrowly prevailed in a thriller.

Back then, at Rawalpindi, Karachi Blues defeated Karachi Whites by just three runs, a result that has since become part of National T20 folklore.

Nearly 10 years on, the piece of history saw both teams find themselves deep into the tournament, underlining Karachi’s enduring depth in Pakistan’s domestic cricket structure.

In the 2016 final, Karachi Blues posted a competitive 182 for 3, driven by a composed and calculated batting effort that set the tone for the contest. Karachi Whites stayed firmly in the chase throughout, responding with intent and aggression, but ultimately fell agonisingly short at 179 for 8, despite pushing the game into the final over.

The match was a showcase of Karachi’s cricketing culture — technically sound batters, street-smart bowlers, and a never-say-die attitude from both sides. Blues held their nerve in the closing moments, executing their plans under pressure to seal a memorable victory and lift the National T20 Cup.

The simultaneous qualification of Karachi Blues and Karachi Whites into the Super Eight round was a significant moment for domestic cricket in the city.

It would reflect not only the revival of Karachi teams in the National T20 Cup but also the growing pool of talent emerging from the region back then.