KRL Outclass PTV to Lift President’s Cup Trophy
KARACHI: Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) lifted the President’s Cup Grade-I trophy after producing a disciplined bowling performance and a composed half-century from Shahzaib Khan to defeat Pakistan Television (PTV) in the final at the National Bank Stadium on Thursday.
PTV skipper Shamyl Hussain’s choice to bat first proved costly as his side struggled to build momentum and was dismissed for 164 in 40.2 overs, despite his quickfire fifty near the top of the order.
The innings began poorly for PTV when opener Yasir Khan departed in just the second over, leaving the score at 12. Hussain then attempted to steady the innings alongside Mohammad Mohsin, and the pair added 58 runs for the second wicket. That stand ended in the 12th over when Mohsin, who scored 22, was removed by Ahmad Hassan.
Hussain continued to look positive and formed short-lived partnerships with Mohammad Suleman and Mohammad Taha before falling in the 18th over, once again to Ahmad. He was PTV’s highest scorer with a 44-ball 50 that included six boundaries and two maximums.
His departure triggered a dramatic collapse, as PTV lost their remaining seven wickets for only 74 runs, failing to post a challenging total in the final.
KRL’s bowling attack was led by Ahmad Hassan and Sufiyan Muqeem, who picked up three wickets each. Ahmed Bashir claimed two scalps, while Iftikhar Ahmed and Hamza Nazar accounted for one wicket apiece.
In reply, KRL made light work of the chase, reaching the target with six wickets down and more than 15 overs remaining. Opener Shahzaib Khan anchored the run chase with a patient knock of 53 from 83 balls, striking four fours and a six before being dismissed in the 30th over.
He received solid support from fellow opener Saad Baig, who contributed 23, and captain Iftikhar Ahmed, who added 25. After Shahzaib’s exit, Muhammad Amir Barki and Hamza Nazar held their nerve, putting together an unbeaten 31-run stand to seal the victory.
For PTV, Faisal Akram was the most effective bowler, finishing with figures of three for 51 in his allotted 10 overs. Ali Usman picked up two wickets, while Israr Hussain claimed one.
