Pakistan Shaheens secured a commanding five-wicket victory over Tasmania in their third match of the Top End T20 series at the DXC Arena in Darwin. The Shaheens, chasing a modest target of 125, cruised to victory in just 15.1 overs, thanks to a standout performance by Sahibzada Farhan and a lethal display from their pace attack.
Tasmania’s decision to bat first after winning the toss quickly backfired as the Shaheens’ bowlers struck early and often. Mohammad Imran Jnr led the charge with an impressive 3-18, dismantling Tasmania’s middle order. Jahandad Khan and Mohammad Abbas Afridi supported him well, each claiming two wickets, as Tasmania struggled to find momentum and were eventually bowled out for a paltry 124 in their allotted 20 overs. Jake Doran was the top scorer for Tasmania with 26, while Tim Ward contributed 22.
In response, Pakistan Shaheens had a shaky start when Mohammad Haris fell for a golden duck on the third ball of the innings. However, Sahibzada Farhan steadied the ship with a fluent 45 off 27 balls, striking six boundaries. He found a reliable partner in Omair Bin Yousuf, who added 32 off 27 balls, as the pair put on a 58-run partnership that set the foundation for the chase.
Despite a mini-collapse in the middle order, with Usman Khan, Tayyab Tahir, and Farhan all falling in quick succession, the Shaheens were guided home by Mubasir Khan and Muhammad Irfan Khan. The duo added a crucial 26 runs for the sixth wicket, ensuring there were no further hiccups.
William Prestwidge was the pick of the bowlers for Tasmania, taking 3-27, but his efforts were in vain as the Shaheens reached the target with ease, winning with 29 balls to spare.
With this victory, Pakistan Shaheens continue their strong run in the Top End T20 series and will look to carry this momentum into their next match against the Melbourne Renegades on Thursday.
Scores in brief:
- Tasmania: 124 all out in 20 overs (Jake Doran 26, Tim Ward 22; Mohammad Imran Jnr 3-18, Jahandad Khan 2-21, Mohammad Abbas Afridi 2-39)
- Pakistan Shaheens: 125-5 in 15.1 overs (Sahibzada Farhan 45, Omair Bin Yousuf 32; William Prestwidge 3-27)
Result: Pakistan Shaheens won by five wickets.
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