Maaz Sadaqat’s blazing century powers Shaheens to crushing win over Strikers

Pakistan Shaheens, powered by a brilliant century from Maaz Sadaqat and a dominant bowling performance, thrashed Adelaide Strikers by 107 runs in their fifth match of the Top End T20 Series at the DXC Arena on Wednesday.

Chasing a massive 203-run target, the Strikers were bundled out for just 95 in 16.1 overs, as Pakistan’s bowlers struck at regular intervals. The collapse began immediately when opener Josh Kann fell for a second-ball duck to Shahid Aziz.

The Strikers stumbled to 37-3 inside the powerplay, with Mubasir Khan dismissing Ryan King (1) and Mackenzie Harvey (27). The spinners then took control, as Mehran Mumtaz removed Harry Nielsen (12) and Faisal Akram bowled Alex Ross (6), reducing the side to 49-5.

The middle and lower order offered little resistance. Tom O'Connell was run out after sharp fielding from Mehran, before Faisal struck again to dismiss Jerssis Wadia for a duck. Mehran claimed Harry Manenti (7), while Mubasir returned to pick up his third wicket by removing Tim Oakley (11).

The innings ended fittingly with Sadaqat, who starred with the bat, chipping in with a wicket as he dismissed Hanno Jacobs (19), sealing a comprehensive victory.

For Shaheens, Mubasir Khan was the pick of the bowlers with 3-19 in three overs. Faisal Akram and Mehran Mumtaz grabbed two wickets each, while Shahid Aziz and Maaz Sadaqat claimed one apiece.

Earlier, batting first, Pakistan Shaheens were off to a flying start with an explosive 149-run opening stand between Yasir Khan and Maaz Sadaqat. Yasir scored a fluent 51 off 35 balls with five fours and a six before being dismissed in the 15th over.

Sadaqat continued to dominate, smashing 104 off 59 balls, including 11 boundaries and two sixes. He was dismissed by Tom O’Connell after a 32-run partnership with Abdul Samad, who added a quick 25 off 18 deliveries. Skipper Irfan Khan Niazi (5) fell cheaply, while the team suffered a mini-collapse in the final over, losing three wickets. Despite that, they posted an imposing total of 202.

With this result, Pakistan Shaheens climbed to second place on the points table with three wins from five matches.