Maaz Sadaqat’s Century Propels Pakistan Shaheens

DARWIN: At the DXC Arena on Wednesday, Pakistan Shaheens showcased their batting strength, posting a competitive 202-6 in their 20 overs against Adelaide Strikers during the Top End T20 Series, largely due to a remarkable century by opener Maaz Sadaqat.

The Shaheens initiated their innings aggressively, with openers Yasir Khan and Sadaqat establishing a solid foundation, maintaining a brisk scoring rate right from the start.

Their impressive 149-run partnership put considerable pressure on the opposition’s bowling attack.

Yasir was the first to be dismissed, scoring 51 off 35 deliveries, which included five fours and a six. Jerssis Wadia took his wicket in the 15th over.

Sadaqat continued his dominant performance, achieving a splendid century that further solidified Pakistan’s position.

Following a 32-run partnership with Abdul Samad, Sadaqat was eventually dismissed by Tom O’Connell for a magnificent 104 off 59 balls, hitting 11 fours and two sixes. His departure left the Shaheens at 181-2 in the 18th over.

Towards the innings’ end, the Shaheens experienced a swift loss of wickets. Skipper Irfan Khan Niazi contributed only 5 runs off 4 balls, while Samad added a quick 25 off 18 balls.

However, a mini-collapse occurred in the final over, resulting in three wickets falling, including Samad and debutant Mohammad Faiq Shahid Aziz, who was dismissed on his first ball.

Mubasir Khan remained not out with 2 runs as the innings concluded at 202-6.

For the Strikers, Harry Manenti stood out, claiming 3-31 in his three overs, supported by Tim Oakley, Wadia, and O’Connell, who each took one wicket.