Multan Region Sets Imposing Total Against Karachi (B) in Hanif Mohammad Trophy

In the ongoing Hanif Mohammad Trophy 2025-26, Multan Region amassed a significant score of 454-8 declared in 117.4 overs during their initial innings against Karachi Region (B) at the State Bank Stadium.

The cornerstone of the innings was opener Zain Abbas, who crafted a remarkable 124 off 171 deliveries, punctuated by 11 boundaries and three sixes, establishing a strong foundation for Multan.

His robust partnerships played a crucial role in fortifying the innings following the early exit of Muhammad Uzair Mumtaz for a modest 10 runs.

Experienced batter Waqar Hussain contributed resiliently with a composed 85 from 182 balls, featuring five fours and a six, providing stability at one end.

In the middle order, Muhammad Sharoon Siraj displayed his offensive capabilities with a brisk 83 off 123 balls (8 fours, 1 six), propelling Multan beyond the 300-run mark.

Arafat Minhas also added a valuable 82 from 116 deliveries, decorated with seven boundaries, ensuring Multan achieved a commanding total despite sporadic wicket losses.

Other noteworthy contributions came from Muhammad Shahzad (25), while tailender Tahir Hussain remained undefeated with three runs.

For Karachi Region (B), the bowling unit persevered under challenging conditions. Mir Hamza emerged as the most successful bowler, claiming crucial wickets, including those of Zain Abbas and Waqar Hussain, ending with figures of 3-78 in 23 overs.

Yaqoob supported with two wickets, dismissing Arafat Minhas and Ali Usman, while Aziz and Umar each secured one wicket.

Responding to the challenge, Karachi reached 192-3 in 51 overs. Opener Abdullah spearheaded the effort with a determined 75 off 109 balls, comprising eight boundaries and a six.

His 105-run stand with Omair Bin Yousuf (62 off 98) stabilized Karachi’s innings following the early departure of Usman Khan (10 off 25).

Both Abdullah and Omair were dismissed by Muhammad Hasan Hafeez, who struck twice in quick succession, leaving Karachi at 168-3 in 42.1 overs.

As they proceed to the third day, Karachi trails by 262 runs with seven wickets in hand, with Haroon Arshad and Saud Shakeel at the crease.