LAHORE, April 4: Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) heaved a sigh of relief as they entered the National One-day Cricket Cup semi-finals, after playing their second tie match against Rawalpindi Rams at the Sheikhupura Stadium on Friday.

Earlier in the tournament, the KRL had played their first tie game against the NBP in the Super Eight stage at the same venue.

Playing under a must-win situation to enter the last-four stage, Rawalpindi Rams were at the edge of crossing the winning target of 273.

However, the last ball run-out of a well-set Yasir Ali left them stranded at 272 for nine as the stipulated 47 overs were completed, reduced from 50 due to inclement weather.

After a disastrous start, losing three wickets for four, Rams were no where. But a solid knock by Usman Saeed (77 off 96 balls) and later by Yasir (51) brought them into a winning position.

In the final over, Rams required 11 runs to win with two wickets in hand and then three runs off the last ball.

Yasir hit Sohail Tanvir for a boundary and had taken two runs but while struggling for the third, a fine throw from Mohammad Wasim ran Yasir out, destroying Rams hopes for a semi-final berth.

Yasir scored a 33-ball 51 while Mohammad Rameez remained unbeaten for 31. Sohail Tanvir finished with three for 59.

Earlier, Saeed Anwar Junior struck a 104-ball 93 and Mohammad Wasim made 62 as the KRL totalled 272-4 in 47 overs.

Scoreboard