Sialkot secured their place in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy 2024-25 final after their third triangular stage match against Lahore Whites ended in a draw at the National Bank Stadium, Karachi. They will now take on Peshawar in the five-day final, starting on 2 January 2025 at the UBL Sports Complex.
Lahore Whites, resuming their first innings at 628-9, were bowled out for 639 in 153.1 overs, with opener Ali Zaryab carrying his bat for a magnificent 206*. Shahzaib Bhatti, Sialkot’s tireless workhorse, finally wrapped up the innings to claim figures of 5-236 in a grueling 57.1-over spell.
Azan Awais’ Batting Prowess Shines Again
Facing a 174-run deficit, Sialkot’s batters put up a determined response. The standout performance came from Azan Awais, who crafted a fluent 121 off 169 balls, his second century of the match after a brilliant 168 in the first innings. His rich vein of form continues as he leads the season’s run charts with 807 runs in seven matches, including four centuries and two fifties.
Mohsin Riaz provided solid support with an unbeaten 57, ensuring Sialkot reached 260-6 in 67 overs before both teams shook hands, sealing the draw and confirming Sialkot’s spot in the final.
The Road to the Final
With the triangular stage now concluded, Sialkot and Peshawar will lock horns in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy final. Sialkot will look to build on their batting depth, led by Azan Awais, while Peshawar, eager for glory, will aim to counter with their own firepower.
As Karachi hosts the championship decider, fans can expect a thrilling contest between two deserving finalists, each vying for domestic cricket’s most prestigious title.
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