The Panthers secured their third consecutive win in the Champions One-Day Cup, defeating the Stallions by 20 runs at Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad. The Panthers set a challenging target of 344 runs, while the Stallions managed to score 324 in their chase.

Captain Saim Ayub led the Panthers with a stunning performance, scoring 156 runs off 130 balls. His innings included 13 fours and 7 sixes, showcasing his aggressive batting style. Saim's impressive century formed the backbone of the Panthers' total, allowing them to reach 344/7 after choosing to bat first.

Saim received solid support from Azan Awais, who added a steady 51 runs off 77 balls. Together, they formed a strong opening partnership of 138 runs. Usman Khan also contributed significantly with a quickfire 75 runs off just 47 balls, hitting 8 fours and 4 sixes.

Despite a mini-collapse towards the end of the innings, with Saim falling in the 46th over, Rizwan Mehmood’s unbeaten 14 off 9 balls helped the Panthers finish on a high note. Zaman Khan was the standout bowler for the Stallions, claiming four wickets.

In response, the Stallions faced early setbacks, losing captain Mohammad Haris for 19 and Shan Masood for 8, leaving them at 33/2. Babar Azam followed soon after, contributing just 5 runs. Hussain Talat played a crucial role in stabilizing the innings with a composed 63 runs from 72 balls.

The standout performer for the Stallions was Tayyab Tahir, who scored a brilliant century, finishing with 109 runs off 120 balls, including eight fours and four sixes. His innings kept the Stallions in contention as they chased the target.

As the innings progressed, Zaman Khan provided an exciting finish with a blistering 42 runs off just 16 balls, but it wasn't enough to secure the win. The Stallions were all out for 324 in 49.3 overs, falling short by 20 runs.

With this victory, the Panthers are looking strong as they head into the final round match against the Lions tomorrow, before the playoffs begin on Tuesday.