In a spectacular performance, Pakistan Shaheens secured a comprehensive 91-run victory over the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Comets in their final league game of the Top End T20 series. The match, held at the DXC Arena in Darwin, saw an impressive maiden T20 century by Muhammad Irfan Khan, propelling the Shaheens to a dominant position in the tournament.
This win not only ensured that Shaheens topped the points table with five victories out of six matches but also secured their spot in the semi-finals. Along with Pakistan Shaheens, the semi-finalists include Adelaide Strikers, Bangladesh ‘A,’ and Northern Territory Strike.
Muhammad Irfan Khan Shines with Maiden Century
Pakistan Shaheens, after opting to bat first, faced early challenges as their top-order batsmen faltered. Opening batters Abdul Faseeh and Mohammad Haris departed early, scoring 8 and 15 runs respectively. With Omair Bin Yousuf (7) and Usman Khan (5) also failing to contribute significantly, the Shaheens found themselves in a precarious position at 48-4 by the end of the powerplay.
At this critical juncture, Muhammad Irfan Khan and Haseebullah formed a game-changing partnership. Together, they added a colossal 140-run fifth-wicket stand in just 13 overs, stabilizing the innings. Irfan Khan’s masterclass saw him score 106 off 56 balls, a knock that included 14 boundaries and two sixes. His maiden T20 century not only lifted the Shaheens out of trouble but also set them up for a commanding total. Haseebullah provided steady support, remaining unbeaten at 49 off 34 balls with four fours and a six.
Thanks to their efforts, Pakistan Shaheens posted a formidable 202-6 in the allotted 20 overs. ACT Comets’ bowlers struggled to contain the duo, with Hanno Jacobs managing two wickets, while Zak Keogh, Tyler Hays, Esam Rahman, and Jake Smith picked up one wicket each.
Shaheens’ Bowlers Crush ACT Comets’ Batting Line-up
Defending a daunting target of 202 runs, Pakistan Shaheens’ bowlers wasted no time in dismantling the ACT Comets’ batting line-up. The Comets were bowled out for just 111 runs in 16.1 overs, falling 91 runs short of the target. Mubasir Khan set the tone early by dismissing both opening batters, Esam Rahman (9) and Nicholas Broes (3), while Arafat accounted for Michael McNamara (5). These early strikes reduced the ACT Comets to 24-3 within the first 3.1 overs, putting them under immense pressure.
Although Tyler van Luin (29) and Zak Keogh (26) mounted a brief resistance, adding 49 runs for the fourth wicket, their partnership was short-lived. Van Luin fell in the ninth over, followed by Keogh in the tenth, leaving the Comets reeling at 79-5.
From there, the Shaheens’ spinners took control of the game, with Arif Yaqoob leading the charge by taking 4-36. Arafat also chipped in with three wickets, while Mubasir Khan added two more to his tally. Faisal Akram picked up a solitary wicket, as the Comets’ last five wickets fell for just 32 runs, ending their innings at 111.
Pakistan Shaheens March into the Semi-Finals
This dominant victory over ACT Comets not only underscored the Pakistan Shaheens’ strength but also solidified their top position in the tournament standings. With five wins from six matches, the Shaheens are now favorites heading into the semi-finals of the Top End T20 series.
Their next challenge will come against tough opponents like Adelaide Strikers, Bangladesh ‘A,’ and Northern Territory Strike. With the form that players like Muhammad Irfan Khan and Haseebullah have shown, combined with a strong bowling attack led by Mubasir Khan and Arif Yaqoob, the Shaheens are well-positioned to continue their winning streak and potentially lift the trophy.
This victory also highlights the depth of talent in Pakistan’s cricketing ranks, with emerging players like Irfan Khan making their mark on the international stage. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on the Shaheens to see if they can maintain their momentum and emerge as champions of the Top End T20 series.
The Pakistan Shaheens’ triumph over ACT Comets was a testament to their all-round capabilities, with stellar contributions from both their batting and bowling units. Muhammad Irfan Khan’s maiden T20 century was the highlight of the match, setting the stage for a commanding win. As the Shaheens move forward to the semi-finals, their confidence will be high, and their fans will be eagerly watching to see if they can clinch the title.
