SNGPL stamped their authority on the President’s Trophy 2023-24, delivering a resounding defeat to WAPDA by an emphatic margin of 519 runs.
The final, held at the iconic Pindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi, bore witness to a masterclass performance by SNGPL’s players, notably Bilawal Bhatti’s century and Shahnawaz Dahani’s nine-wicket haul.
The match, which reached its conclusion on the third day of the scheduled five-day final, will be etched in cricketing history for its moments of brilliance and sheer dominance displayed by SNGPL. Let’s delve into the captivating narrative of this unforgettable clash.
Dominance on Display
As the final day dawned, anticipation hung thick in the air. With SNGPL resuming their second innings at 121 for five, the stage was set for a dramatic finale. However, what unfolded surpassed expectations as Bilawal Bhatti and Mubasir Khan orchestrated a batting spectacle.
Bhatti’s elegant strokeplay saw him amass a scintillating century, his 101 runs coming off just 114 deliveries, adorned with 14 boundaries and 2 towering sixes. His partnership with Mubasir Khan, who contributed a gritty 91, propelled SNGPL to declare at 346 for eight, setting a daunting target for WAPDA.
Amidst the onslaught, Asif Afridi emerged as a lone warrior for WAPDA, claiming a fifer but at the expense of 149 runs. Despite his efforts, SNGPL’s formidable total loomed large, signaling the mammoth task ahead for WAPDA.
The Chase and the Collapse
With a target of 686 runs looming ominously, WAPDA’s batting lineup faced a Herculean challenge. Yet, in the face of adversity, they strode to the crease with determination.
However, fate seemed to conspire against them as wickets tumbled at regular intervals, and SNGPL’s bowlers tightened their grip on the game.
Ayaz Tasawar emerged as a beacon of resistance amidst the chaos, crafting a courageous innings of 51 off just 30 balls, punctuated with seven boundaries and three maximums. However, his heroics proved insufficient as the rest of the batting order faltered.
Notably, Umar Akmal, a pillar of WAPDA’s lineup, was unable to contribute in the crucial second innings due to illness, further exacerbating their woes.
Shahnawaz Dahani, continuing his remarkable form from the first innings, spearheaded SNGPL’s bowling attack with precision and guile. His devastating spell yielded two crucial wickets, propelling his match tally to a remarkable nine wickets for a mere 94 runs. Mir Hamza provided ample support, claiming three vital scalps to further dent WAPDA’s hopes of staging a miraculous comeback.
Celebrating Heroes
As the final wicket fell, sealing SNGPL’s monumental victory, jubilation erupted among the players and fans alike. For SNGPL, it was a moment of triumph, a testament to their unwavering resolve and exceptional skill.
Bilawal Bhatti’s century and Shahnawaz Dahani’s match-winning performance earned them the accolades of player of the match, a fitting tribute to their stellar contributions.
However, the President’s Trophy wasn’t just about individual brilliance; it was a testament to the collective effort and camaraderie of the entire SNGPL team. Each player played their part, contributing to the team’s success and etching their names in the annals of cricketing history.
Recognition and Rewards
As the dust settled on the pulsating final, attention turned to the awards ceremony, where the heroes of the tournament were duly recognized. Abdul Faseeh from KRL (Khan Research Laboratories) and Mohammad Rameez Jnr from Ghani Glass were honored as joint players of the tournament, a testament to their consistent performances throughout the season.
For SNGPL, the victory not only brought glory but also lucrative rewards, with a prize purse of PKR three million awaiting them. WAPDA, though falling short in the final hurdle, received a commendable sum of PKR 1.5 million for their efforts, a testament to their resilience and determination.
