Under the Karachi sun, the UBL Sports Complex bore witness to a riveting first-class contest as Eshaal Associates secured a six-wicket victory over Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL). The three-day battle saw moments of sheer brilliance, particularly from Musa Khan, Nisar Ahmed, and Azan Awais, whose performances tilted the scales decisively in Eshaal’s favor.
Day One: Musa Khan’s Milestone Five-For Restricts OGDCL
The match began with Eshaal Associates’ spearhead, Musa Khan, etching his name in the annals of first-class cricket. His spellbinding 5-52 not only dismantled OGDCL’s batting lineup but also brought up his 100th first-class wicket—a milestone befitting a bowler of his caliber. The young pacer’s relentless accuracy and seam movement left OGDCL reeling, as they were bundled out for 187 in just 48.1 overs.
Despite the early setback, OGDCL found brief resistance from their middle order, with Sameer Saqib’s 43 and Raja Hamza Waheed’s 35 offering a glimmer of hope. However, with Nisar Ahmed (3-28) and Jalat Khan (2-56) providing able support, Eshaal ensured a firm grip on the contest.
In response, Eshaal Associates cautiously navigated their way to 110-4 by the close of play. The onus was now on their middle order to build a commanding total.
Day Two: Azan Awais and Danish Aziz Anchor Eshaal’s Dominance
Resuming at 110-4, Eshaal’s fortunes rested on Azan Awais. The left-hander displayed patience and class, constructing a masterful 100 off 235 deliveries. His knock, laced with ten boundaries, marked his sixth first-class century and anchored Eshaal’s innings towards a commanding total of 325.
Supporting him was Danish Aziz, whose counter-attacking unbeaten 88 off 135 balls added crucial lower-order runs. His eight fours and three sixes ensured Eshaal converted their advantage into a 138-run lead.
However, OGDCL’s Mushtaq Ahmed provided a moment of individual brilliance, claiming 6-88 in 22 overs. His tireless effort restricted Eshaal from running away with an even larger lead.
Trailing by 138 runs, OGDCL’s opening pair, Hasan Raza (79) and Sameer Saqib (48), responded with defiance. Their unbroken 140-run stand at stumps ensured their team ended day two with renewed belief, wiping off the deficit and positioning themselves for a fightback.
Day Three: Nisar Ahmed Spins Eshaal to Victory
With OGDCL looking to set a challenging target, Nisar Ahmed had other plans. The left-arm spinner unleashed a devastating spell, his 5-82 dismantling OGDCL’s batting order. Despite a valiant knock from Sameer Saqib, who carried his bat for a brilliant 125*, and Hasan Raza’s aggressive 89, OGDCL faltered under Nisar’s relentless accuracy and flight.
Their innings folded at 292, setting Eshaal Associates a target of 155.
Eshaal’s chase was steady and composed, driven by contributions across the top order. Zubair Khan (44*), Azan Awais (41), and Abdullah Shafique (33) ensured there were no hiccups, guiding their team to victory in 36.3 overs. Umar Siddiq’s unbeaten 20 was the final touch to an emphatic win.
A Contest to Remember
Eshaal Associates’ triumph was a testament to their all-round depth and resilience. Musa Khan’s fiery spell on day one set the tone, Azan Awais’ century on day two provided stability, and Nisar Ahmed’s match-winning performance on day three sealed the fate of OGDCL.
With this six-wicket victory, Eshaal Associates not only showcased their dominance but also sent a strong message for the rest of the season. For OGDCL, it was a case of what could have been—individual brilliance aplenty, but a collective effort just short of overcoming a formidable opponent.
As the Karachi skies witnessed the final act of this gripping battle, one thing was certain—this contest will be remembered as a display of class, grit, and sheer cricketing brilliance.
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