WATCH: Mohammad Abbas struck a stunning six-wicket haul for State Bank of Pakistan in their President’s Cup opener against Pakistan Television, sealing a ten-wicket win.
Bowling first, he destroyed the opposition for 66, taking 6-19 in 11 overs, including three wickets. His wickets included both openers, and he followed up the performance with four goals in the second half. Pakistan Television put up the better fight, making 339, but they were unable to avoid defeat.
Abbas has not played for Pakistan since August 2021, despite boasting an excellent Test record and accumulating first-class wickets in Pakistan and in county cricket for Hampshire since his dismissal. He has 90 wickets in 25 Tests at an average of 23, and now has 670 first-class wickets at 20.45. This was his 44th five-wicket haul in first-class cricket. With Pakistan opting for an inexperienced attack to tour Australia, the 33-year-old remaining overseas is a point of frustration for some fans.
The President’s Trophy marked the return of provincial cricket to Pakistan, but was met with controversy. Pundit Bazid Khan has objected to some of the rules of the competition, which include limiting the first innings to 80 overs. Sui Southern gas pipelines also withdrew from the tournament days before its start.
Watch Muhammad Abbas’ six below:
Forty-fourth career five-wicket haul for @RealMAbbas226 🙌
Mo took matching figures of 10/122 while playing in the President’s Cup in Pakistan! 🇵🇰
Congratulations, Mo 👏 pic.twitter.com/5R5SZ7QGBC
– Hampshire Cricket (@hantscricket) December 18, 2023