MULTAN: Shahzaib Khan and Khushdil Shah’s half-centuries powered Pakistan Whites to a strong total against Pakistan Greens in the opening match of the National Champions Cup 2026.
Opting to bat first under scorching heat at Multan Cricket Stadium, Pakistan Whites piled up 276-8 in 50 overs.
Skipper Saim Ayub and Shahzaib Khan added 27 in 4.5 overs. Saim went back after scoring 12 following a misunderstanding with Shahzaib.
The left-hander struck an elegant shot through the covers and attempted a third run, but Farhan Yousaf’s accurate throw ended Saim’s brief stay at the crease.
Soon after, Mohsin Riaz was caught and bowled by Salman Mirza for only four, leaving Whites 40-2 in 7.1 overs.
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After the double blow, Usman Khan and Shahzaib Khan held the innings together with a gritty 78-run partnership. Shahzaib raised his half-century in the process, keeping the innings steady with his brisk batting.
The stand eventually culminated in Usman’s wicket, who was caught for 34 from 52 deliveries, hitting two fours and a six.
At this stage, Pakistan Whites were 118 in 23.3 overs. Despite the wicket, Shahzaib carried on, stitching another crucial partnership with Khushdil Shah.
Pakistan Whites were in a solid position at 160 in 30 overs before Naseem Shah removed Shahzaib to lift his side. Shahzaib Khan struck seven boundaries in his 76 from 88 balls.
The highlight of the innings was 78-run stand between Hassan Nawaz and Khushdil Shah for the fifth wicket. The pair batted briskly, scoring 56 and 51, respectively, to take the total to the 241-run mark.
However, Pakistan Greens bowlers adjusted at the back end of the innings, managing to limit Whites scoring.
For Pakistan Greens, Naseem Shah picked up three wickets. Faheem Ashraf also chipped in with two scalps.
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