Mahmood’s Five-Wicket Burst Leads Markhors to 126-Run Win

In a match full of dramatic turns, Zahid Mahmood, Salman Agha, and Iftikhar Ahmed were instrumental in securing a commanding 126-run victory for the Markhors over the Stallions. The game took a decisive turn when the Stallions collapsed from a promising 79 for 2 to 105 all out, losing eight wickets for just 26 runs.

The Markhors, who had earlier posted a total of 231 all out, benefited from crucial contributions by Iftikhar Ahmed (60) and Salman Agha (51). Despite the Stallions' initial promise, they faltered while chasing what was a relatively low target. Zahid Mahmood’s exceptional bowling performance, claiming 5 wickets for just 18 runs, coupled with Agha’s 3 for 21, proved to be the turning point in the match.

The Stallions appeared to be in a strong position early on, especially when Babar Azam scored five boundaries in an over off Shahnawaz Dahani, helping the team reach 50 runs in just nine overs. However, the game shifted dramatically when Shan Masood was dismissed after a misjudged delivery from Naseem Shah, which shattered his stumps.

Under mounting pressure, the Stallions' innings unravelled quickly, as they lost their next eight wickets in only 53 balls. Despite Captain Mohammad Haris’s efforts, the chase that had once seemed within reach ended in a comprehensive defeat.

In the first innings, the Markhors started tentatively, losing early wickets, with Jahandad Khan taking 4 for 49 and dismissing Fakhar Zaman for 20. The team found themselves in a precarious position at 38 for 3. However, they recovered through three crucial half-century partnerships, though a flurry of quick wickets towards the end saw the last five batsmen fall for just 10 runs.

Despite the rocky start, the Markhors’ bowlers ensured that the total was more than sufficient, maintaining their perfect record in the tournament.