By Shakeel Ur Rehman
KARACHI: Eshaal Associates and National Bank played out a draw in their President’s Trophy Grade-II Gold match at the state bank Sports Complex in Karachi, with both sides settling for a point after an absorbing contest.
Eshaal Associates finished on 19 points in Group B, while Kingsmen Sports get 24 points and top the table. Both teams qualify for the semi finals.
Resuming their second innings at 148 for three, Eshaal Associates declared at 415 for eight, setting National Bank a target of 344 runs after they had been bowled out for 227 in the first innings.
Young Pakistan Under-19 opener Usman Khan, who had earlier struck a magnificent double century against JDW Sugar Mills, once again produced an outstanding batting performance. Showing remarkable patience and temperament, Usman scored 171 runs from 219 deliveries, hitting eight fours and six towering sixes.
Usman was involved in a crucial 156-run third-wicket partnership with Ashir Mahmood, which provided the foundation for Eshaal Associates to build a commanding total.
Ashir Mahmood also continued his excellent form, scoring a superb 102 runs, including seven fours and eight sixes.
For National Bank, Muhammad Naeem was the standout performer with the bat. He scored an impressive 102 runs, striking 10 fours and five sixes in the first innings.
With Eshaal Associates holding a substantial first-innings advantage, National Bank made a determined effort in their second innings. They reached 196 for three at the close of play on the final day, forcing the match to end in a draw.
Naeem added 69 runs in the second innings, while Abdul Wahid remained unbeaten on 55, ensuring that National Bank avoided defeat.
Eshaal Associates’ bowlers had earlier kept National Bank under pressure, with Muhammad Sudais claiming five wickets for 53 runs, while Muhammad Faizan took four wickets.
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