DARWIN – Pakistan Shaheens delivered a commanding performance in the Top End T20 Series, defeating the Adelaide Strikers by 107 runs, with opener Maaz Sadaqat emerging as the star of the night with a spectacular century. The match, played at the DXC Arena, showcased both batting brilliance and sharp bowling that left the opponents outclassed.
Winning the toss and electing to bat first, the Shaheens set the tone with a remarkable opening stand. Maaz Sadaqat and Yasir Khan put together 149 runs for the first wicket, dismantling the Strikers’ bowling attack. Yasir played a steady hand, scoring 51 off 35 deliveries with six boundaries, while Maaz stole the spotlight by racing to a scintillating 104 runs off just 59 balls, hammering 11 fours and two sixes. His innings not only anchored the Shaheens but also provided the platform for a strong finish. Abdul Samad added 25 off 18 balls in the later overs to take the Shaheens to an imposing total of 202 for 6 in 20 overs.
The Strikers’ response faltered almost immediately as they lost wickets in quick succession. Apart from a brisk 27 from opener Mackenzie Harvey, no other batter could withstand the pressure of the Shaheens’ disciplined attack. The Strikers were eventually bowled out for 95 in 16.1 overs, falling well short of the target.
The Shaheens’ bowlers shared the honors, with Mubasir Khan leading the charge by claiming three wickets for 19 runs. Faisal Akram and Mehran Mumtaz also made key contributions, each taking two wickets to ensure there was no chance of a recovery for the Strikers.
This comprehensive win marked the Shaheens’ third victory of the tournament, taking their points tally to six and solidifying their position as serious contenders in the series. The performance not only highlighted the team’s growing depth but also underlined Maaz Sadaqat’s emergence as one of the most promising batting talents in Pakistan’s cricketing pipeline.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.