Pakistan Television (PTV) delivered a commanding performance in the seventh round of the President’s Trophy Grade-I, securing a dominant innings-and-94-run victory over Higher Education Commission (HEC) on the third day at KCCA Stadium, Karachi.
HEC, already struggling after being forced to follow on, resumed their second innings at 42 for one, but their resistance was brief. Ali Hamza Wasim fought hard, crafting a 57-ball 50 with eight boundaries and a six, matching his first-innings effort. However, PTV’s bowlers showed no mercy—Ali Usman led the charge with 4-32, while Mohammad Mohsin (3-29) and Muhammad Shahzad (2-19) wrapped up the innings in just 35.2 overs.
PTV’s dominance had been set up earlier by their batting unit, with Waqar Hussain (84), Salman Khan Jnr (77), and Shamyl Hussain (76) laying the foundation for a formidable 425-run total. With four wins in the tournament, PTV continues to be a team to watch.
Abdullah Shafique’s Century and WAPDA’s All-Round Control
At the NBP Sports Complex, Pakistan’s Test batter Abdullah Shafique displayed his class once again, registering his 10th first-class century. His 107 off 253 balls, laced with 11 fours and a six, was the backbone of Eshaal Associates’ first-innings total of 270.
However, WAPDA ensured they stayed ahead. Fast bowler Aqib Khan’s five-wicket haul (5-82) dismantled Eshaal’s lower order, giving WAPDA a 121-run lead. By the end of the day, WAPDA extended their advantage, reaching 200 for seven, with skipper Khalid Usman playing a vital knock of 66* off 99 balls, striking nine boundaries. With a strong position heading into the final day, WAPDA has their sights set on another victory.
Ali Razzaq’s Heroics Propel Ghani Glass to a Strong Lead
Meanwhile, at the State Bank Stadium, Ghani Glass capitalized on their overnight position of 272-5 to post an imposing 435, thanks to a sensational knock by Ali Razzaq. The middle-order batter, registering his maiden first-class century, crafted a marathon 162 off 254 deliveries, striking 20 fours and two sixes. His resilience ensured Ghani Glass secured a healthy 165-run first-innings lead over Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL).
SNGPL responded cautiously, reaching 154 for four by stumps, with Saad Khan (35) and Haseebullah (32*) leading the fight. They still trail by 11 runs, setting up a tense final day.
Shahid Aziz’s Ten-Wicket Haul Keeps KRL in the Hunt
The most remarkable individual performance of the day belonged to KRL’s Shahid Aziz, who completed his maiden ten-wicket match haul at the UBL Sports Complex. After bagging 6-57 in the first innings, Aziz tore through Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) again, this time taking 4-63, reducing them to a modest 165.
KRL, set a target of 230, lost three wickets but remained firmly in the chase at 140 for three by stumps. Imran Rafiq (47*) and Muhammad Awais Zafar (40*) will return on the final day, needing just 90 more runs to secure the win.
With multiple games hanging in the balance, the final day promises thrilling finishes across the venues.
Leave a Reply