Saud ton, Usman’s five-for power Pakistan to convincing warm-up win
· NEWS WIRE · 2026-08-16T02:24:00+00:00 · nguồn gốc
BECKENHAM - Saud Shakeel struck an unbeaten century after left-arm spinner Ali Usman claimed a superb five-wicket haul as Pakistan registered a commanding seven-wicket victory over the Professional County Club (PCC) Select XI in their three-day tour match at the Kent County Cricket Ground on Saturday.
Chasing a target of 262, Pakistan completed the task comfortably, reaching 263-3 in 57.1 overs to finish the warm-up fixture on a high ahead of the three-match Test series against England, which begins on August 19. After the early dismissal of Azan Awais for one, Saud anchored the innings with a composed, match-winning knock of 100 not out from 147 deliveries, decorated with 10 boundaries and three sixes.
The left-hander combined brilliantly with opener Imam-ul-Haq, who produced a fluent 80 off 88 balls, striking 13 fours, as the pair added 127 runs for the second wicket to put Pakistan firmly in control. Captain Mohammad Rizwan then contributed an unbeaten 33, while Awais Zafar remained 30 not out as Pakistan sealed victory with ease.
Earlier, PCC Select XI resumed the final day on 128-3, holding a 195-run lead, but Pakistan’s bowlers staged an impressive fightback to dismiss the hosts for 194 in 41.1 overs, setting a manageable victory target. Ali Usman was the chief destroyer, returning outstanding figures of 5-42 in 9.1 overs to dismantle the lower order. Ubaid Shah claimed two wickets, while Salman Ali Agha, Sajid Khan and Mohammad Ali chipped in with one wicket each. Falconer top-scored for PCC Select XI with a brisk 56 off 56 balls, including 10 fours, while Saif Zaib and Manny Lumsden added 24 runs apiece. Pakistan’s comprehensive victory provides the visitors with valuable momentum and renewed confidence as they prepare for the opening Test against England later this week.