The third round of the prestigious President's Trophy Grade-I tournament ignited across four venues in Karachi on Friday, with two magnificent centuries and a stunning batting recovery headlining an action-packed opening day.
WAPDA's Remarkable Fightback Led by Ammar
At the United Bank Limited Sports Complex, the match between WAPDA and Sahir Associates took a dramatic turn. WAPDA, asked to bat first, found themselves in deep trouble at 70 for five. However, a monumental, unbroken sixth-wicket partnership completely shifted the momentum. Mohammad Ammar played a heroic, match-saving innings, remaining not out on a brilliant 140 from 264 balls, which included 22 fours. He was ably supported by captain Khalid Usman, who scored a determined 93 from 174 deliveries.
Their colossal stand of 237 runs propelled WAPDA to a strong position at stumps, finishing the day at 307 for six. For Sahir Associates, Khan Zaib was the most successful bowler, taking three wickets for 70 runs.
Azan Awais Anchors SNGPL Innings
Meanwhile, at the State Bank Stadium, SNGPL opted to bat first against State Bank of Pakistan and closed the day on 197 for four. The innings was built around a patient and composed century from opener Azan Awais, who scored an unbeaten 103 from 242 balls. His knock, featuring 13 fours and a six, provided the backbone for his team's total. Captain Shan Masood contributed a steady 35, while Shahid Aziz claimed two wickets for the State Bank bowling attack.
Bowlers Take Center Stage in Remaining Fixtures
The bowlers dominated the other two matches on Friday. At the National Bank of Pakistan Sports Complex, KRL enjoyed an excellent day after OGDCL chose to bat. OGDCL were bowled out for 244 in 82.4 overs, with Danish Aziz offering the main resistance via a gritty 56. The KRL bowling was spearheaded by Mohammad Hamza, who delivered an impressive spell of four wickets for just 31 runs. Ahmed Bashir provided strong support with three wickets.
In the final match at the National Bank Stadium, Ghani Glass seized early control by dismissing PTV for a modest 186 in only 38.4 overs. PTV's Shamyl Hussain played a brisk innings of 68, but Mir Hamza's excellent five-wicket haul for 55 runs dismantled the batting lineup. In response, Ghani Glass reached 109 for five at the close of play, still trailing by 77 runs and setting the stage for a compelling second day.
The opening day of the third round has set up intriguing battles for the days ahead, with individual brilliance and team resilience already on full display in Pakistan's premier domestic first-class competition.
