Pakistan Shaheens bow out of T20 series after semifinal defeat

Lahore: The Pakistan Shaheens’ campaign in the Top End T20 Series came to an end after they were defeated by the Perth Scorchers by 48 runs in the semifinal. This victory marked the second time the Scorchers have beaten the Shaheens in the series.

After winning the toss and choosing to bowl, the Pakistan Shaheens’ bowlers made a strong start, but the Scorchers eventually posted a total of 155 for 8 in their 20 overs.

The innings was anchored by Nicholas Hobson, who played a crucial knock of 59 runs, which included seven fours and two sixes, helping his team recover from a tough position. Captain Wylie also contributed a quick 29 runs.

In response, the Pakistan Shaheens’ chase never really got going. They suffered an early blow when opener Yasir Khan was out for a duck, and by the 10th over, they were struggling at 65 for 5.

The match was effectively sealed when Scorchers’ bowler Keaton Critchell delivered a sensational hat-trick, taking three wickets in three consecutive balls to leave the Shaheens’ score at 66 for 8. The entire team was eventually bowled out for just 107 in 17.1 overs.

For the Shaheens, Saad Masood was the most successful bowler, taking three wickets for 21 runs. Mehran Mumtaz and Wasim Jr. also performed well, picking up two wickets each.

On the winning side, Critchell’s three wickets were the highlight, while Matthew Kelly and Bryce Jackson also contributed to the victory with two wickets apiece.