KARACHI: Fine performances by spinner Mohammad Ilyas and opener Riaz Meerani guided Ali Sports to a rousing eight-wicket win against Qasmi CC in the 28th Aga Khan Gymkhana Ramazan Cricket Tournament for the State Life Trophy here on Sunday.

Qasmi CC’s third straight loss in Group ‘C’ put them out of contention, while Ali Sports recorded their first victory in three matches.

Leg-spinner Ilyas, who was named man-of-the-match, captured three wickets for 12 runs as Qasmi CC were all out for 117 in 18 overs with Rehan Aam making a 30-ball 34 (two sixes and as many fours).

Off-spinner Misbah Khan provided good support with three for 32 and slow left-armer Sohaib Khan took two for eight.

Ali Sports improved their net run-rate significantly by romping home in just 7.2 overs as they collected 118-2. Right-hander Riaz blasted an unbeaten 72 of just 23 balls with seven sixes and five boundaries and completed his half century (54) in a record 13 deliveries.

Furqan Lohar contributed 30 off 12 balls with four fours and a six.

Summarised scores:

QASMI CC 117 in 18 overs (Rehan Azam 34, Kamran Hussain 22; Mohammad Ilyas 3-12, Misbah Khan 3-32, Shoaib Khan 2-8); ALI SPORTS 118-2 in 7.2 overs (Riaz Meerani 72 not out, Furqan Lohar 30).

Published in Dawn, July 7th, 2015

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