PCCS XI vs PAK: Saud Shakeel's century powers Pakistan to 7-wicket win in warm-up game

Pakistan have got off to a great start to their England tour, winning the three-day warm-up fixture against Professional County Club Select XI (PCCSXI) by seven wickets on Sunday, August 16 at Kent County Cricket Ground, Beckenham.

Chasing a target of 262 on Day 3, Pakistan completed the run chase in 57.1 overs, riding on a splendid century from Saud Shakeel (100*), while Imam-ul-Haq also played a brilliant innings of 80 (88). Pakistan were behind in the game after being bundled out for 238 in the first innings, trailing by 67 runs. 

However, an inspired bowling spell from Ali Usman skittled the PCCS XI for 194 in the second innings, giving Pakistan a real chance to register a win. The left-arm spinner picked up a five-wicket haul (5/42 in 9.1 overs), while Ubaid Shah (2/9) chipped in with two wickets for the visitors.

In the fourth innings, Pakistan lost Azan Awais (1) cheaply, who had his stumps shattered by Nathan Gilchrist (1/25). However, Imam ul Haq and Saud Shakeel brought their team in the driver’s seat with a 112-run stand for the second wicket.

Shakeel's century sees Pakistan home

While Imam-ul-Haq retired hurt on 80, Saud Shakeel continued to motor along in his innings. He stitched crucial stands with Mohammad Rizwan (33 off 48) of 70 runs (106 balls) and later with Awais Zafar (30* off 34) of 52* runs (51 balls) to get his team over the line.

For PCCSXI, Nathan Gilchrist (1/25), Manny Lumsden (1/33) and Josh Hull (1/28) picked up one wicket each. Meanwhile, Pakistan will take their confidence into the upcoming three-match Test series against England, beginning on August 19 at Headingley, Leeds.