Rain forces draw in four-day clash between Pakistan and PM's XI

Rain forces draw in four-day clash between Pakistan and PM's XI

Asher Butt

The eagerly awaited final day of the four-day encounter between Pakistan and Prime Minister’s XI at Manuka Oval concluded in a draw after persistent rain led to a complete washout. Unfortunately, no play was possible on the last day, leaving both teams unable to make any further impact on the game.

The match's conclusion was particularly disappointing given the tantalizing position it was in after the penultimate day. Prime Minister’s XI, powered by Matt Renshaw's outstanding unbeaten century (136 not out), had reached 367-4 in 141 overs, trailing Pakistan by just 24 runs. Renshaw's resilient innings, comprising 337 balls, eight boundaries, and a six, showcased his mastery at the crease.

Earlier in the game, Pakistan had set the stage with a declaration at 391-9 in their innings. The skipper, Shan Masood, played a captain's knock with an unbeaten double century (201 not out) that spanned 298 deliveries, featuring 14 boundaries and a six. Shan Masood's stellar performance rightfully earned him the Player of the Match accolade.

Right-arm pacer Jordan Buckingham played a crucial role for the Pakistan side, registering an impressive five-wicket haul in the innings, putting the opposition under pressure.

As the match concludes without a decisive result, both teams will now shift their focus to the upcoming Test series. Pakistan is set to play against Australia in the first Test starting on December 14 in Perth, with the first ball expected to be bowled at 0720 PKT. The drawn practice game has set the stage for an intriguing Test series, and cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the battles to unfold in the Test arena.

Scores in brief:

Match drawn

Pakistan 391-9d, 116.2 overs (Shan Masood 201 not out, Sarfaraz Ahmed 41, Babar Azam 40, Abdullah Shafique 38; Jordan Buckingham 5-80, Mark Steketee 1-58, Nathan McAndrew 1-68, Todd Murphy 1-110)

Prime Minister’s XI 367-4, 141 overs (Matt Renshaw 136 not out, Cameron Bancroft 53, Marcus Harris 49, Cameron Green 46; Imam-ul-Haq 1-12, Faheem Ashraf 1-57, Khurram Shahzad 1-50, Abrar Ahmed 1-80)

Player of the match – Shan Masood (Pakistan).