A commanding 158-run partnership for the third wicket by Mohammad Suleman and Ali Zaryab steered Pakistan Shaheens to a convincing seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka 'A' on the final day at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

By PakPassion Staff (November 11, 2024)

Suleman's innings ended at 86, while Zaryab remained not out on 83, guiding the Shaheens to the 222-run target in just 53 overs.

The match also highlighted the bowling prowess of Test fast bowler Khurram Shahzad, who, on the fourth day, quickly wrapped up the Sri Lankan innings for an unchanged overnight score of 364, securing five wickets for 70 runs, and accumulating nine for 102 in the match.

The partnership between Suleman and Zaryab was crucial after early setbacks saw Pakistan Shaheens at 32 for 2. Suleman's departure at 190 left 32 runs needed for victory, which Haider Ali quickly chased down with an aggressive 19 not out from just 14 balls.

Ali Zaryab's unbeaten 83 came off 125 balls, complementing his first innings score of 55. His performance earned him the Player of the Match award.

Khurram Shahzad's return from injury has been impressive, with match figures of 4-32 and 5-70, while Kashif Ali also shone with the ball, taking 5-31 and 2-79.

The teams will reconvene for the second and final four-day match at the same venue on November 18.

Match Summary:

Sri Lanka 'A': 115 (first innings) & 364 (second innings)
Pakistan Shaheens: 258 (first innings) & 222-3 (second innings)
Player of the Match: Ali Zaryab (Pakistan Shaheens)

Upcoming Fixture: Second four-day match, 18-21 November, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.