LAHORE, Oct 11: A brilliant all-round performance by Azhar Shafiq put defending champions Pakistan Customs on road to victory against Sui Gas on the penultimate day of the Patron’s Trophy Grade-I tie at Gaddafi Stadium Thursday.

After making a crucial 55 in Customs’ second innings of 145, Azhar Shafiq then claimed three for 25 to reduce Sui Gas to 109 for eight. The first-class newcomers need another 80 for victory with only two wickets in hand.

Customs, who were reeling at 50 for five at the start of third day’s play, were able to reach a respectable 145 largely due to Azhar, who struck six fours in 109-ball 55 until he was ninth out.

Sui Gas began their chase for 189 in disastrous fashion and slumped to 66 for five with Azhar taking the wickets of Mohammad Hafeez (11), Fareed Butt (7) and Ali Hussain (1).

Left-arm speedster Waqar Ahmed, who took five for 47 in the first innings, also bowled with hostility to claim three for 23.

The pacers of both sides have enjoyed bowling on a seamers’ paradise as 13 wickets fell on the third day. Out of 38  wickets that fell in  three days, 35 have been snapped up by quick bowlers.

Azhar Abbas completed a 10-wicket — for 88 runs — haul in the match, including six for 38 in the second innings.