Pakistan A chases down 314
While, the horror of the lost Test match are still fresh in our minds, Pakistan A team has provided us with some solace, with a 4 wicket win against England Lions. The most satisfying part of the victory was the chase of 314 for the loss of 6 wickets only. Abid Ali starred with 113.
The 4 day match was played in Abu Dhabi, a stone throw away from the test centre where Pakistan capitulated. In this game, Pakistan A very bowled out England Lions for 240 but could only reply with 195. England took advantage of the lead and pilled on the runs. On the 4th innings, the batting side needed 313 runs.
They were off to the worst possible start as both openers were gone inside 4 overs. However, Abid Ali knitted a strong partnership with Usman Salahuddin. They took the score to 172, as Usman was out caught to England spinner DM Bess. Captain Rizwan Ahmed chipped in with 47 following his fifty in the 1st innings too. Saud Shakeel celebrated being picked by Quetta Gladiators by playing a T20 like innings scoring at a strike rate of 123. Mark Wood picked up one wicket in the innings, making it an impressive 5 wickets in the match. For Pakistan A Shaheen Shah Afridi took 7 wickets in the game.
However, the star of the show was definitely Abid Ali. He came in when the score was 0 and took it to 296. He had a decent series against New Zealand A, would be hoping that a Pakistan call up is not far away. For Pakistan fans, they would hope the senior team takes inspiration from this victory.
