KARACHI, Nov 24: Airport Gymkhana cantered to a surprising 43-run victory over the star-studded KESC in the Paragon Cup 2001 Ramazan cricket tournament at UBL Sports Complex ‘A’ Ground here Saturday.

Former international Ghulam Ali blasted 76 off 66 deliveries as Airport Gymkhana collected 166 for eight in their allotted quota of 25 overs.

Apart from Ghulam Ali, who struck seven fours and one six, opener Agha Sabir smashed four fours and one six in making 31 off 29 balls.

Off-spinner Tahir Khan returned splendid figures of five for 15 in five overs.

KESC were never in the hunt after losing openers Abdullah Khan (2) and Mushtaq Afridi (14) through atrocious running between the wickets before finishing on 123 for eight in their 25 overs.

Only Shahid Dawood managed to contribute a worthy 31 off 37 balls with two hits to the fence while hard-hitting all-rounder Arif Mahmood scored 20 off 24 deliveries, including one six and a four.

Former Test player Asif Mujtaba chipped in with two for 20.

This was KESC’s first defeat in Group ‘C’ in three matches. having won against Aftab Memorial and Total Energy.

Tahir Khan being adjudged Man-of-the-Match.

Sunday’s fixture: Paragon Constructors v CDC (UBL ‘A’ Ground).