Kamran Akmal century keeps Central Punjab on top

[Ulquiorra]

 

Kamran's 166 helped Central Punjab draw against Sindh. © Getty

Central Punjab vs Sindh

Kamran Akmal scored a masterful 166 as Central Punjab held on to a draw despite an early wobble on the final day of their fixture against Sindh. Central Punjab had appeared to have put defeat out of the way with their batting performance on the third day when Umar Akmal scored a century after an early wobble. But Central Punjab squandered their position when both Umar and Salman Butt fell early in the day's play. Usman Salahuddin's cheap dismissal further exacerbated CP's troubles.

It was then that Kamran joined forces with Zafar Gohar. The two put on a massive 227-run partnership that Kamran dominated. The older of the Akmal brothers scored 166 from 212 balls, hitting a total of 26 boundaries in his 33rd first class century. Gohar, who made 75, was an able partner, steadfast in not allowing Sindh another. The umpires waited until Tea before calling the match a draw. At the end of the eight-round, Central Punjab lead the points table with 117 points followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with 97 points and Southern Punjab 91 points. Sindh remain winless in the competition and are placed at fifth position with 69 points.

Brief Scores: Central Punjab 246 & 499/9 (Kamran Akmal 166, Umar Akmal 122; Mohammad Umar 2-87) vs Sindh 339. Match Drawn

Northern vs Southern Punjab

Umar Siddiq's back-to-the-wall and a welcome spell of rain allowed Southern Punjab to escape with a draw in their fixture against Northern in Rawalpindi. Southern Punjab, made to follow-on, were still trailing by 119 at the start of the final day's play. Northern, who sensed a second consecutive victory, however had to contend with the stubborn presence of Umar Siddiq.

The left-hander scored 107 from 151 balls, stitching in process a crucial stand with Zeeshan Ashraf as Northern fought manfully for a breakthrough. The final victory push would evade them with a sudden burst of rain calling the day's play to a close after 47 overs.

Brief Scores: Northern 463/7 decl. vs Sourthern Punjab 268 & 271/4 (f/o) (Umar Siddiq 107, Zeeshan Ashraf 52). Match Drawn