The Markhors faced their first defeat in the Champions One-Day Cup as the Lions claimed a 35-run victory on Friday at the Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad. Led by Mohammad Rizwan, the Markhors were unable to chase down the massive 368-run target set by Shaheen Afridi’s Lions.
Winning the toss, the Lions opted to bat first. Their innings was anchored by a stellar opening partnership between Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq, who accumulated 110 runs. Shafique scored 52 off 64 balls, while Imam contributed 51 off 56. Despite their dismissals by Zahid Mehmood in the 19.2 and 22nd overs respectively, the Lions maintained their momentum.
Omair Yousuf (30 off 33) and Mohammad Taha (31 off 37) kept the scoreboard ticking. However, it was the partnership between Irfan Khan and Khushdil Shah that truly bamboozled the Markhors. The duo struck 10 fours and eight sixes, amassing a partnership of 147 runs. Khushdil’s explosive 73 off 45 deliveries included four boundaries and five sixes before he was dismissed by Mohammad Imran.
Irfan Khan’s magnificent century proved to be the highlight of the Lions’ innings. He struck 100 off just 56 balls, with 10 fours and five sixes, leading the Lions to a formidable total of 367/6 in 50 overs.
In response, the Markhors’ chase got off to a rocky start. Despite a solid 82 off 72 balls from Fakhar Zaman, the team struggled after his dismissal. Even the skipper, Rizwan, could only manage 20 runs before being sent back. Abdul Samad’s crucial 42 off 37 balls gave the Markhors a glimmer of hope, but his departure turned the tide once again.
Salman Ali Agha then stepped up with a fiery 69 off 39 balls, including seven fours and four sixes, reigniting the Markhors’ chances. However, after Salman’s dismissal, the team was left with just two wickets in hand and 52 runs needed for victory. The Markhors battled valiantly, taking the game to the final ball, but ultimately fell short, finishing their innings at 332/9.
This thrilling contest saw notable contributions from both teams. The Lions’ formidable batting display set the tone, while the Markhors’ chase, despite falling short, showcased their fighting spirit. The Lions’ bowlers, led by captain Shaheen Afridi, managed to keep their composure under pressure, securing a well-deserved victory.
Lions’ Playing XI:
- Abdullah Shafique
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Omair Yousuf
- Mohammad Taha
- Irfan Khan
- Khushdil Shah
- Aamer Yamin
- Shaheen Afridi (captain)
- Mohammad Asghar
- Sajjad Ali (wk)
- Ahmed Daniyal
Markhors’ Playing XI:
- Bismillah Khan (wk)
- Fakhar Zaman
- Kamran Ghulam
- Mohammad Rizwan (captain)
- Salman Ali Agha
- Iftikhar Ahmed
- Abdul Samad
- Mohammad Imran
- Zahid Mehmood
- Shahnawaz Dahani
- Mohammad Imran
The Lions’ triumph over the Markhors marked a significant milestone in the tournament, ending the latter’s undefeated streak. With both teams displaying exceptional talent and resilience, the Champions One-Day Cup continues to deliver exciting and high-quality cricket. As the tournament progresses, fans eagerly anticipate more thrilling encounters and outstanding performances.
