Watch: Mohammad Abbas claimed a spectacular six-wicket haul for State Bank of Pakistan in their President’s Trophy opener against Pakistan Television, setting up a ten-wicket victory.
As the opening bowler, he hit his opponents for 66, winning 6-19 in 11 overs, including three maidens. His wickets included both opening balls and he followed up his performance with four balls in the second innings. Pakistan Television put up a good fight and won 339 but could not avoid defeat.
Abbas has not played for Pakistan since August 2021, despite having an excellent Test performance since his release and picking up first-class wickets in county cricket for Pakistan and Hampshire. He has taken 90 wickets at an average of 23 in his 25 Tests and currently has 670 first class wickets at 20.45. This was his 44th five-wicket haul in first-class cricket. The 33-year-old’s exclusion has been a source of frustration for some fans as Pakistan have opted for an inexperienced attacking line-up for the tour of Australia.
The President’s Trophy was meant to mark the return of cricket to Pakistan, but it was met with controversy. Pundit Bajid Khan slammed some of the tournament’s rules, such as limiting the first innings to 80 overs. Suisan Gas His Pipelines also withdrew from the tournament a few days before it began.
Watch Mohammad Abbas’ six-for below:
A 44th career five-wicket haul for @RealMAbbas226 🙌
Mo recorded a strike rate of 10/122 in the President’s Cup for Pakistan. 🇵🇰
Congratulations 👏 pic.twitter.com/5R5SZ7QGBC
– Hampshire Cricket (@hantscricket) 18. December 2023
