Abdullah Shafique’s Half-Century Powers Yorkshire to Victory

LEICESTER: In a Vitality Blast match held in Leicester, Abdullah Shafique’s impressive half-century propelled Yorkshire to a thrilling two-wicket victory against Shan Masood’s Leicestershire on Friday.

After Yorkshire captain Dawid Malan chose to field, Leicestershire were dismissed for 185 in 18.5 overs.

Rehan Ahmed and Ben Cox each scored 43 runs, providing crucial contributions to the innings. Skipper Louis Kimber added a quick 27 off just 12 balls, hitting two sixes and two fours, to boost the score. However, Shan Masood’s innings was cut short as he scored 21 off 14 balls, including one six and three fours. Leicestershire struggled to form substantial partnerships, with five batsmen failing to reach double digits.

Matt Milnes and Will Sutherland spearheaded Yorkshire’s bowling attack, each claiming three wickets. Dan Moriarty and Jordan Thompson supported with two wickets each, effectively restricting the scoring.

Yorkshire’s chase of 186 was highlighted by Abdullah Shafique’s superb innings of 64 runs from 38 balls. His knock featured four sixes and four fours, providing stability after some early setbacks. Matthew Revis contributed a swift 52 off 32 balls, including three sixes and four fours, helping Yorkshire maintain a good run rate. Sutherland (18) and James Wharton (14) also made valuable runs down the order. Thompson and Milnes each added 12 runs, securing the win in the final over.

For Leicestershire, Logan van Beek was the top performer with the ball, taking 3/35 in his four overs. Ian Holland stood out with 2/19, including a maiden over, while Josh Hull also grabbed two wickets. Rehan managed to take one wicket.