KARACHI: Pakistan Television (PTV) created history on Saturday by breaking a 232-year-old record by successfully defending the smallest wicket in first-class cricket during the fourth round of the President Trophy Grade-1 at the National Bank Stadium.
Defending champions Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) had set a meager target of 40 runs, but their bowling department forced a spectacular finish as they reduced the opposition to just 37 runs to seal a thrilling two-run win.
A target of 40 runs is currently the smallest successfully defended in the history of first-class cricket. The record was previously held by an English domestic club, Outfield, who defended 43 against Marylebone Cricket Club in 1794.
Left-arm spinner Ali Usman was the standout bowler for the holders in a thrilling second innings, taking 6 wickets to finish with 10 wickets. He was amply supported by all-rounder Amat Bhatt who claimed four scalps.
Wicket keeper batsman Saifullah Bangash had a solo performance for SNGPL with 14 off 35 balls, while the rest of his teammates failed to score double figures.
A pulsating third day of the fourth round President Cup Grade-I match saw PTV resume their second innings from 99/5 with a slender 27-run lead in their favour.
PTV were booked for a modest 111 in 42.5 overs and could add 12 more runs to their overnight score as Shehzad Gul and Sajid Khan combined with their batting tail.
Mohammad Taha continued to top the order with 27 off 123 balls, followed by Mohammad Suleman’s 25.
Shezad was a brilliant bowler in the second innings of the SNGPL, picking up five wickets. He was supported by Sajid, who took three scalps, while Shahnawaz Dahani took two scalps.
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