Sanwal Shahzada’s historic Double Century steals the show in Punjab’s Triumph; and Naseebullah’s anchor innings guided Balochistan to victory in A. S. Ali Blind Cricket Trophy
7th Match: Punjab Vs Islamabad (Hayyatabad Sports Complex)
(Peshawar, 23rd April 2024): The 7th Match of the A.S. Ali Blind Cricket Trophy was played between Islamabad and Punjab at Hayyatababd Sports Complex Peshawar. In a run-feast encounter of the A. S. Ali Blind Cricket Trophy where 935 runs were scored in a day, Punjab showcased their batting class by posting a daunting total of 482 runs for the loss of six wickets in their allotted 40 overs against Islamabad. Moain Aslam (B2) and Sanwal Shahzada (B3) led the charge with impressive centuries, setting a formidable target for Islamabad.
Figure 1″The batsman sets his sights on sending the ball soaring out of the park.”
Sanwal Shahzada’s batting masterclass saw him score an extraordinary 232 runs off just 132 balls, a performance that will be remembered. This is his first double hundred in one-day matches, added a new chapter to the tournament’s history. Whereas Moain’s aggressive knock of 132 runs off 89 balls anchored Punjab innings. Punjab’s middle order batsmen also contributed significantly, ensuring a challenging total on the board.
However, Islamabad in response displayed exceptional resilience in their chase, led by Captain Nisar Ali and Kamran Akhtar, who scored 156 and 100 runs respectively. Their partnership laid the foundation for Islamabad’s spirited pursuit of the target.
Ultimately, Islamabad Blind fell just short of the target, posting a commendable total of 453 runs for the loss of nine wickets in their allotted 40 overs. Punjab bowling attack, led by Babar Ali (2 wickets) and Mohsin Khan’s economical bowling, managed to contain the opposition’s onslaught.
Despite Punjab’s dominant batting display, Islamabad’s determined performance ensured an exciting contest that captivated spectators till the very end.
Result: Punjab won by 29 runs Man of the Match: Sanwal Shahzada
8th Match: Balochistan Vs KPK (Peshawar Gymkhana Cricket Ground, Peshawar)
Balochistan won the toss and put KPK into bat. In a disappointing turn of events, KPK Blind missed out the must win game scenario to kept their chances alive to reach the final, as they were bowled out early in their match against Balochistan.
Despite a promising start, KPK Blind failed to capitalize on their batting and were bowled out for 259 runs in just 33.2 overs. Muhammad Rashid showcased exceptional batting skill with a spectacular century but the team’s overall performance fell short of expectations. The bowling attack from Balochistan proved to be too formidable, with Haroon Khan and Mati Ullah leading the charge and restricting KPK innings with 3 wickets and 2 wickets respectively.
In response, Balochistan chased down the target of 260 runs within 30.1 overs, securing victory with five wickets in hand. Naseeb Ullah played a composed innings of 86 runs as he anchored the innings with maturity and precision. While Naimatullah was the second highest scorer with 39 runs. Israr, Shahzaib, Fakhar and Irfan claimed a wicket a piece for KPK.
Result: Balochistan won by 5 wickets Man of the Match: Naseebullah
