Abid Ali shines with bat to lead Egerton CC to victory in GMCL clash

Pakistan Test cricketer Abid Ali played a match-winning innings of 154* runs, steering Egerton CC, Lancs 1st XI, to a commanding 97-run win over Bradshaw CC, Lancs 1st XI, in a rain-affected 50-over game of the Greater Manchester Cricket League (GMCL) in Manchester.

Batting first, Egerton CC set a formidable target of 332-4 in their full quota of 50 overs. Abid Ali's innings, which was scored off just 80 balls, was highlighted by 13 fours and 11 sixes.

The 36-year-old was well-supported by D Dudley, who added a solid 86 runs from 103 balls, including 13 boundaries and one six. J Whittaker also contributed a quick 51 off 61 balls, featuring six fours and one six. For Bradshaw CC, B Diplock and C Haefele each took two wickets.

Chasing a revised target of 187 runs from 22 overs due to rain interruptions, Bradshaw CC's innings struggled against early setbacks. Opener B Yates made a fighting 39, while C Dickinson added 20 runs. B Ernst was the only other batter to reach double figures with 15 runs. However, the rest of the batting lineup fell short, resulting in a significant 97-run defeat.

K Basharat was the standout bowler for Egerton CC with three wickets, supported by J Whittaker with two.

Abid Ali's remarkable innings not only earned him the title of the match's hero but also underscored his crucial role in Egerton CC's victory, fueling hopes of his imminent return to the Pakistan Test team.