Irfan, Khushdil shine as Lions beat Markhors

Irfan Khan's explosive century and Khushdil Shah's all-round performance helped the Lions secure their first win in the Champions One-Day Cup, ending Markhors' unbeaten run in the tournament. The victory also maintained the trend of all eight games being won by the team batting first.

Lions got off to a strong start thanks to openers Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq, who put up a solid 110-run partnership. Both scored half-centuries, with Shafique making 52 and Imam contributing 51. However, the openers were dismissed in quick succession by Zahid Mahmood, followed by Iftikhar Ahmed and Mohammad Imran, who removed Omair Yousuf (30) and Mohammad Taha (31) respectively, leaving Lions at 181 for 4.

It was then that Irfan Khan and Khushdil Shah took charge, building a crucial 147-run stand for the fifth wicket. Their aggressive batting saw the duo smash 12 fours and eight sixes, propelling Lions to a formidable total. Khushdil was dismissed after scoring 73 off just 45 balls, while Irfan continued his onslaught, reaching his century off 56 balls. His late flurry of boundaries took the Lions to an impressive 367 for 6.

In response, Markhors' chase began on a positive note with Fakhar Zaman attacking Shaheen Shah Afridi during a rapid 80-run opening powerplay. However, Ahmed Daniyal struck back by dismissing Bismillah Khan and Kamran Ghulam, slowing down the Markhors' momentum. Khushdil Shah then made his mark with the ball, removing Fakhar and Iftikhar Ahmed to further dent the opposition's hopes.

Skipper Mohammad Rizwan was run out for 20 in the 33rd over, leaving Markhors needing 176 runs off the remaining 108 balls. Despite a fighting effort from Abdul Samad (42) and Salman Agha (69), the target proved too steep. Aamer Yamin and Afridi sealed the win for the Lions by dismissing both set batters and taking another wicket each.

Zaman calls for consistency

Pakistan cricketer Fakhar Zaman has highlighted the need for a stable domestic cricket structure in Pakistan, emphasizing its importance for developing a strong pool of backup players. The 34-year-old believes that consistent tournaments over a few years will help unearth new talent and strengthen the national team.

"I think it will be beneficial if these tournaments take place regularly for 3-4 years. Then you'll see how many backup players Pakistan will have," Fakhar said.