Cricket: UBL down KRL in final

Bag National One-Day Cup Division II title.

KARACHI: Wicket-keeper Adnan Baig scored a crucial half-century and spinner Misbah Khan claimed four wickets as UBL beat KRL by 166 runs to clinch the National One-Day Cup Division II title on their first attempt in the top-tier.

After being put into bat, UBL were propelled to 262 by Baig’s 95-ball 79 before Khan helped dismiss KRL for a paltry 96. Baig hit 11 boundaries, enabling his side post a challenging total with useful contributions from Mohammad Sami (36) and Saeed Mutabbar (30). KRL’s Mohammad Irfan claimed three wickets.

In reply, Khan ripped through the KRL batting order, finishing with four for 18, while Kashif Bhatti followed up his 28-run knock with two wickets and captain Tahir Mughal also claimed two scalps.

“The win is a result of team effort but Mughal’s captaincy played a big part,” Misbah, who was earlier reported for a suspect action, told The Express Tribune. “I’m ecstatic that I was able to play a big role after being cleared.”

Selectors pay visit

Meanwhile, Pakistan Cricket Board Chief Selector Iqbal Qasim and national selection committee member Saleem Jaffar also witnessed the proceedings. Jaffar was present during UBL’s innings, while Qasim witnessed the second-half of the match.

Khan was pleased with the presence of the PCB officials. “Selectors’ presence gives hope to domestic players and makes everybody want to give their best.” UBL pocketed Rs250,000, while man-of-the-final Baig was rewarded Rs25,000.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 12^th, 2012.