Basit Ali becomes the first-ever PJL centurion:
Basit Ali scored a remarkable unbeaten 106 to lead Bahawalpur Royals to a surprising five-wicket victory over Gujranwala Giants. Basit established a new record by becoming the first-ever PJL centurion.
Basit led the way in a 67-run partnership with Johan Mahne as the Royals got off to an explosive start. Basit used the powerplay to his advantage by attacking Giants bowlers. Mahne was unable to reach his crease at the bowling end, which led to the end of the opening partnership.
Before being bowled out by Mohammad Shan, skipper Obaid Shahid smashed four fours in his 11-ball knock of 20 runs. The right arm then dismissed Shawaiz Irfan for a first-ball duck.Despite the loss of wickets at the other end, Basit continued to play aggressively. He had solid support from Nangeyalia Kharotai, who scored 16 runs off 10 balls.
When the Royals needed 14 off 8 balls, Basit remained calm at the other end and hit a superb straight six. The Royals needed eight runs going into the final over.
Bahawalpur Royals earlier chose to bowl after winning the toss. Azan Awais (1) was dismissed early by left-arm bowler Sajjad Ali, who had three wickets in his team’s previous game.
The Giants quickly found themselves in serious danger as Mohammad Zeeshan dismissed both Mohammad Waqas (11) and captain Uzair Mumtaz (0) in the first delivery of his first over.
When Ariful Islam was out caught behind by Arham Nawab for two, the Giants were reeling at 21 for four in 5.2 overs.
A spectacular century partnership between Shevon Daniel and Hasnain Majid saved the Giants.The two scored 122 runs together for the fifth wicket, which is the highest partnership in the tournament so far.
Before being bowled by Nathan Edward in the 17th over, Hasnain made 50 off 38 balls. In his 81 off 51 balls, left-hander Daniel put on a remarkable performance to make his significance to his team very clear. He hit six fours and five huge sixes. In the innings’ final over, Daniel was dismissed.
The Giants reached an impressive 179 for 6 in 20 overs thanks to the outstanding Daniel-Hasnain partnership.
