England:  The Pakistan Shaheens have made a strong start to their tour of England, securing a five-wicket victory over the Professional County XI in a rain-affected opening one-day match.

The match, played in Kent, was reduced to 28 overs per side due to persistent rain.

The Professional County XI, batting first, were bowled out for 187. Will Smeed was the top scorer for the county side with a brisk 84, supported by Hamza Sheikh’s 44. For the Shaheens, Maaz Sadaqat was the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets, while Saud Shakeel and Faisal Akram each bagged two.

Chasing a revised target of 204 in 28 overs, the Pakistan Shaheens successfully reached their goal with five wickets in hand. Captain Saud Shakeel led from the front with a superb 72 runs, ably supported by Haider Ali, who contributed 71. Shahid Aziz remained unbeaten on 21, ensuring the Shaheens’ comfortable chase.

The Pakistan Shaheens are set to play their second match of the tour against the Professional County Club on July 25th, also in Kent.