Maaz Sadaqat’s blazing ton powers Shaheens to 202-6 vs Strikers

DARWIN: Pakistan Shaheens, powered by a brilliant century from opener Maaz Sadaqat, posted 202-6 in their 20 overs against Adelaide Strikers in the ongoing Top End T20 Series at the DXC Arena on Wednesday.

Batting first, the Shaheens made a strong start as openers Yasir Khan and Sadaqat set the tone early, scoring fluently and keeping the scoreboard ticking.

The pair added a commanding 149-run partnership, putting the opposition under pressure.

Yasir was the first to depart, dismissed for 51 off 35 balls, laced with five fours and a six, by Jerssis Wadia in the 15th over.

Sadaqat, however, continued his exceptional knock, reaching a magnificent century to further strengthen Pakistan’s innings.

His stay ended after a 32-run stand with Abdul Samad, when Tom O’Connell removed him for a superb 104 off 59 deliveries, featuring 11 boundaries and two sixes. His dismissal left the Shaheens at 181-2 in the 18th over.

The Shaheens then lost quick wickets towards the end. Skipper Irfan Khan Niazi (5 off 4) fell cheaply, while Samad’s 25 off 18 balls provided late impetus.

However, the side suffered a mini-collapse in the final over, losing three wickets, including Samad and debutant Mohammad Faiq Shahid Aziz, who was dismissed first ball.

Mubasir Khan remained unbeaten on two as the innings concluded at 202-6.

For the Strikers, Harry Manenti impressed with 3-31 in his three overs, while Tim Oakley, Wadia, and O’Connell chipped in with one wicket each.