Rizwan inspires OGDCL to first innings lead

LAHORE: Rizwan Ali’s outstanding unbeaten century propelled Oil and Gas Development Company (OGDCL) to a first innings lead on the second day of the President’s Trophy Grade-II final against Eshaal Associates at Abbottabad Cricket Stadium.

At stumps, Eshaal Associates had a lead of 109 runs with six wickets in hand in their second innings.

Starting the day at a precarious 64-4, OGDCL made a strong comeback, posting 315-7 in their allotted 75 overs. Rizwan Ali, the wicketkeeper-batter, was the star of the day with a magnificent 143 not out, composed over 205 balls and featuring 14 fours and a six. His resilient innings ensured OGDCL gained a crucial 18-run first-innings lead over Eshaal Associates. Rizwan was well supported by Mohammad Sarwar Afridi, who scored a vital 84 off 123 balls, including seven boundaries and a six. Together, they formed a formidable 169-run partnership for the seventh wicket. Mohammad Adil claimed three wickets, while Hamza Sajjad took two wickets.

In their second innings, Eshaal Associates’ openers Mohammad Sudais (34 off 36 balls, 4x4s, 2x6s) and Afaq Ahmed (23 off 43 balls, 2x4s) provided a solid start with a 51-run partnership. Ahmer Ashfaq was dismissed for a duck, while Faizan Zafar contributed 21 off 43 balls with two boundaries.

At the close of play, Sajjad Ibrahim (33 not out off 44 balls, 6x4s) and Abdul Rehman (6 not out off 11 balls, 1x4) were at the crease, having added 22 runs before stumps. They will resume batting on day three, looking to extend their 109-run lead and set a challenging target for OGDCL.