On September 14, the third match of Pakistan’s Champions One-Day Cup featured a match between Panthers and Dolphins. After winning the toss, the Panthers decided to bat first. Usman Khan scored 111 off 110 balls, fully utilizing the 50-over format.
With 11 boundaries and three maximums, the right-handed batter was able to accomplish this. The other noteworthy contribution came from Shadab Khan and Haider Ali, who finished with scores of 65 and 63, respectively. Usman’s forceful blow helped the Panthers record a difficult-to-beat goal of 328 runs.
Usman Khan and Umar Siddiq combined for 70 runs for the third wicket after losing the first two wickets
When Dolphins set out to pursue the target, a pace express known as Muhammad Hasnain was waiting for them. After the dismissal of the Dolphins top order by Usama Mir and Shadab, Hasnain exploited their middle and lower order with a five-wicket haul. Qasim Akram, who was batting cautiously and forming minor partnerships along the road, was the most important wicket to go. He dismissed him after 65 balls out of 62.
Pricey Mohammad Hasnain performs for the Panthers
With an economy rate of 7.40 and 74 runs conceded in his 10-over quota, the right-arm pacer was on the pricey side. However, the Panthers’ timely wickets proved to be decisive, as the Dolphins were bowled out for 278 runs in 47 overs. After falling to Markhors by an overwhelming 160 runs in their opening game, Panthers opened their account in the points table with this victory.
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Speaking of Markhors, after playing just one game, they are sitting atop the table with 14 points and an impressive net run-rate (NRR) of 3.2. With one loss in as many games, the Shaheen Afridi-led Lions are at the bottom of the standings and will look to mount a counterattack in the next match.