Pakistan’s practice match against Victorian XI ends even

The two-day practice match between Pakistan and Victorian XI at Junction Oval concluded with a draw after an intriguing display of cricket from both sides.

Pakistan started the match with a solid batting performance in their first innings, declaring at 323-8 in 78.4 overs.

Saud Shakeel (70 retired) and Mohammad Rizwan (50 retired) laid a strong foundation. Salman Ali Agha contributed with a well-crafted 51, and Sarfaraz Ahmed (35), Siam Ayub (30), and Abdullah Shafique (26) made valuable contributions. Imam ul Haq scored 37, steering the team towards a competitive total. 

The Victorian XI bowlers faced resistance, with FC Warren (3-69) leading the attack, supported by MF Fotia (2-44), WB Parker (1-52), SM Elliott (1-40), and TR Pearson (1-48).

In response, Victorian XI posted a competitive total of 272-4 in 59 overs in their first innings. Opener MH Harris impressed with a brilliant 126, anchoring the innings. DJ Brasher remained unbeaten with a solid 79, while BR Thomson (30) and WJ Pucovski (4) also contributed. 

The Pakistan bowlers shared the wickets, with Shaheen Afridi (1-37), Mir Hamza (1-69), Sajid Khan (1-53), and Hassan Ali (1-53) each making breakthroughs.

With the match was heading towards a draw, Pakistan batted again in the second innings, reaching 57-2 in 11.2 overs before the conclusion of the match. 

Abdullah Shafique remained unbeaten with a promising 39, while Shan Masood (6) and Sarfaraz Ahmed (10) were the batsmen dismissed. SM Elliott (1-6) and TR Pearson (1-8) managed to pick up wickets for the Victorian XI.