The Quaid-e-Azam Trophy’s fourth-round matches kicked off with a bang as Lahore Whites’ Ali Zaryab and Multan’s Zain Abbas both recorded their maiden double centuries. On the other hand, Rawalpindi’s debutant left-arm fast bowler, Mohammad Faizan, made a memorable first-class entry by claiming a five-wicket haul. Let’s delve into the thrilling action from the opening day:
Faisalabad vs. Rawalpindi at Pindi Cricket Stadium
Faisalabad found themselves in a tough spot after being put into bat as Mohammad Faizan, playing his maiden first-class match, wreaked havoc with the ball. Faizan’s sensational performance resulted in him taking five wickets for just 35 runs, and Faisalabad was bundled out for a mere 112 in 39.3 overs. Ali Waqas was the sole notable contributor with a score of 26.
In response, Rawalpindi was at 77 for four when stumps were drawn, with opener Zeeshan Malik leading the way, remaining undefeated on 60 off 96 balls.
FATA vs. Multan at Shoaib Akhtar Cricket Stadium
Multan seized complete control of the first day’s proceedings after choosing to bat. Zain Abbas played a stunning innings, remaining unbeaten on 219 runs off 268 balls, which included an impressive 30 fours and one six. He formed an unbroken 312-run partnership for the third wicket with Mohammad Basit, who also remained unbeaten on 142 off 166 balls, smashing 23 fours and two sixes.
By the close of play, Multan had piled up 405 for two in 86.1 overs, asserting their dominance.
Karachi Whites vs. Lahore Whites at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Lahore Whites displayed their batting prowess, posting a solid total of 345 for three in 87 overs after being asked to bat first. Ali Zaryab, the left-handed batter, stole the spotlight by scoring his maiden first-class double century, finishing unbeaten on 204 runs off 289 balls, embellished with 25 fours and one six. Test cricketer Ahmed Shehzad contributed 65 runs, featuring nine boundaries.
Lahore Whites concluded the day in a commanding position.
Lahore Blues vs. Peshawar at Abbottabad Cricket Stadium
Lahore Blues faced an early setback as they lost four wickets for 58 runs after opting to bat. However, a remarkable partnership between Hussain Talat and Junaid Ali, adding 138 runs for the fifth wicket, resurrected their innings. Hussain top-scored with 87 runs off 167 balls, while Junaid contributed 82 off 101 balls.
Lahore Blues was eventually dismissed for 334 in 85.1 overs, setting the stage for an intriguing contest.
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