Islamabad Secures Dominant Victory in Quaid-e-Azam Trophy
Islamabad delivered a commanding performance to secure a comprehensive 10-wicket win over Multan on the third day of the sixth round of the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy at the Imran Khan Cricket Stadium in Peshawar. This marked Islamabad’s first victory in the tournament, showcasing their strong batting and bowling line-up.
After securing a 163-run lead in the first innings, Islamabad’s bowlers, led by Shayan Sheikh (4-56) and Hunain Shah (3-25), restricted Multan to 172 in their second innings after they were forced to follow-on. The match concluded swiftly as Islamabad achieved the target of 10 runs in the very first over. Hunain Shah, who took six wickets for 81 runs in the match and scored 51 runs in the first innings, was named the player of the match.
FATA Maintains Control Over Abbottabad
At the Shoaib Akhtar Cricket Stadium, FATA maintained control over Abbottabad after posting a massive total of 687-7 on the second day. On the third day, left-arm spinner Asif Afridi continued his excellent form by claiming seven wickets for 127 runs, keeping Abbottabad’s response in check. Abbottabad reached 424-8 at stumps, thanks to Shahzaib Khan’s impressive 167, which came off 350 balls and included 20 fours and two sixes. Khalid Usman remained unbeaten on 50.
Sialkot Stuns Bahawalpur with Aggressive Batting
Sialkot responded strongly to Bahawalpur’s declaration of 511-9 at the Abbottabad Cricket Stadium. This total was built on centuries from Mohammad Ammar (166), Saad Khan (155), and Mohammad Sudais (112) on the second day. On the third day, Sialkot’s opening pair dominated proceedings as Mohammad Huraira (178, 216 balls, 24 fours, 3 sixes) and Azan Awais (156*, 241 balls, 18 fours, 1 six) put on a massive 326-run partnership. At stumps, Sialkot were 375-1 in 80 overs.
Karachi Blues Extend Lead Over Peshawar
At the Marghzar Cricket Ground in Islamabad, Karachi Blues extended their dominance over Peshawar. After dismissing Peshawar for 165 on the second day, with pacer Muhammad Umar taking six wickets for 30 runs, Karachi’s batters capitalized on their advantage. Young wicketkeeper-batter Saad Baig followed up his first-innings score of 109 with another century, scoring 116 off 153 balls, including 12 fours and three sixes. Shan Masood remained unbeaten on 101 as Karachi declared their second innings at 283-3. Shan’s innings included seven fours and two sixes.
Peshawar, at stumps, were 92 for four, still requiring 418 runs to win. Mohammad Hamza picked up four wickets for 40 runs in the process.
Key Performances and Match Highlights
The match saw several standout performances, with bowlers and batsmen alike contributing significantly to their teams’ successes. The aggressive batting displays by players like Mohammad Huraira and Azan Awais, along with the disciplined bowling by Shayan Sheikh and Hunain Shah, highlighted the competitive nature of the tournament.
As the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy continues, teams are expected to push for more victories, with each match offering opportunities for emerging talents to shine. The tournament remains a crucial platform for domestic cricket in the region, providing valuable experience for players aiming to represent their country on the international stage.