Asif takes Faisalabad past spirited Multan

Batsman scores unbeaten 66 in low-scoring match.

KARACHI:

Asif Ali’s half-century helped Faisalabad Wolves defeat Multan Tigers by five wickets in the second semi-final.

Set an easy target of 121, Wolves had to dig deep to earn the victory as they struggled on their way to making 122 for five in 19 overs. Asif scored an unbeaten 66, consuming 50 balls and hitting two sixes and seven boundaries, to give his side breathing space in a tight chase. Mohammad Irfan, Rahat Ali, Rizwan Haider and Zulfiqar Babar grabbed one wicket each for the Wolves but the absence of a fifth bowler was felt when the two part-timers – Saeed Anwer Jnr and Aamer Yameen – gave away 29 runs in three overs.

Earlier, Wolves restricted Tigers to 120 for seven as Naved Yasin top-scored with 46 while Shoaib Maqsood made 26 off 15. Asad Ali picked up two scalps.

Wolves skipper Misbah praised youngster Asif for keeping his cool under pressure.

“Asif played really well under pressure,” said Misbah, adding that the plan was to bat out through the innings and ensure a steady chase. “He kept his nerves under control in a low-scoring game. The bowlers too did a great job to restrict them to a low total as they bowled according to a set plan.”

Misbah added that he was looking forward to an exciting final but refrained from commenting on his side’s chances against tournament-favourites Lions.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 9^th, 2012.