Fast bowler Ali Raza delivered a career-defining performance, securing his maiden 10-wicket haul in first-class cricket to put Sialkot in pole position against Peshawar on Day 3 of the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy 2024-25 final at the UBL Sports Complex in Karachi.
Playing just his second first-class match, the right-arm pacer ripped through Peshawar’s batting lineup, claiming 7-48 in the second innings to finish with match figures of 10-110. His brilliance helped Sialkot bundle out Peshawar for a modest 159, setting up a chase of 173 for the title.
Peshawar’s Batting Woes Continue
Resuming at 5-0, Peshawar’s hopes of building a commanding lead were shattered by Ali Raza’s fiery spell. Their top-order collapsed early, and despite a fighting 57 off 79 balls from Maaz Sadaqat, they never recovered. Mehran Ibrahim (32) and Zubair Khan (28) tried to stabilize the innings, but Sialkot’s bowlers remained relentless. Captain Amad Butt provided valuable support, taking 2-66, ensuring Peshawar never gained momentum.
Sialkot’s Stuttering Chase
With just 173 to win, Sialkot looked poised to take control, but Peshawar’s fast bowler Niaz Khan had other plans. The right-arm quick delivered a stunning spell, claiming 4-20 in just eight overs to leave Sialkot in deep trouble at 59-5 when stumps were drawn.
As the final heads into its most crucial phase, Sialkot require 114 more runs with five wickets in hand to secure the prestigious Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. With Ali Raza’s heroics and Niaz Khan’s fiery comeback, Day 4 promises an electrifying battle for domestic cricket’s biggest prize.
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