In the Top End T20 Series fixture on Wednesday, Shawaiz Irfan’s attacking half-century and a disciplined bowling performance led Pakistan Shaheens to a 43-run victory over Melbourne Stars. This marked Pakistan Shaheens’ third consecutive win in the series.
Opting to bat first, Pakistan Shaheens got off to a solid start with an opening partnership of 60 runs between Shamyl Hussain and Shawaiz Irfan. Shawaiz played an impressive knock of 65 off 37 balls, supported by captain Rohail Nazir. They posted a total of 169 for six in 20 overs.
In response, Melbourne Stars struggled in their chase and could only manage to score 126 for eight in 17.1 overs. They fell short of the target by 43 runs, with two players unable to bat due to injury. Left-arm spinner Faisal Akram was the standout bowler for Pakistan Shaheens, taking two wickets for 24 runs.
In their third match of the Top End T20 Series on Thursday, Pakistan Shaheens defeated Melbourne Renegades by eight runs in a low-scoring game. Pakistan Shaheens successfully defended a small target of 94, bowling out Melbourne Renegades for 85 in 19.4 overs. Ali Asfand and Arafat Minhas were the key bowlers, each picking up three wickets.
In their batting innings, Pakistan Shaheens were bowled out for 93 in 18.5 overs, with Shawaiz Irfan top-scoring with 34 runs. Ruwantha Kellapotha was the pick of the bowlers for Melbourne Renegades, taking three wickets for 15 runs.
Pakistan Shaheens will face PNG in their last round match at the DXC Arena on Friday. The final of the tournament will be played between the top two teams on Sunday, August 6.