LAHORE: The England Lions clinched the three-match T20 series with a game to spare, defeating the Pakistan Shaheens by 32 runs in the second encounter at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium Nursery One in Abu Dhabi on Sunday afternoon.
After winning the toss and opting to bat, Pakistan Shaheens struck early when Shahid Aziz dismissed Will Smeed for a first-ball duck. However, the Lions recovered through a brisk partnership between Ben McKinney (38 off 25 balls) and captain Jordan Cox (34 off 30 balls).
The innings was anchored by James Coles, who remained unbeaten on 48 off 30 balls, striking four boundaries and two sixes. His composed knock ensured the Lions posted a competitive 183-5. For Pakistan, Shahid Aziz impressed in his first outing of the series, claiming 2-26 in four overs, while Saad Masood picked up two wickets.
Pakistan Shaheens began positively, with captain Shamyl Hussain (20 off 15 balls) and Maaz Sadaqat (32 off 25 balls) adding 41 runs for the opening wicket. Despite contributions from Saad Baig (20), Hasan Nawaz (20), and a late flourish from Saad Masood (30 off 17 balls), regular breakthroughs kept the chase in check.
The Shaheens were eventually bowled out for 151 in 19.3 overs, falling short by 32 runs. England’s James Coles was the standout performer, complementing his batting heroics with a superb spell of 4-18. He was supported by Scott Currie and Sonny Baker, who claimed two wickets apiece, ensuring Pakistan never threatened the target.
Scores in brief:
England Lions beat Pakistan Shaheens by 32 runs
England Lions 183-5, 20 overs (James Coles 48 not out, Ben McKinney 38, Jordan Cox 34; Shahid Aziz2-26, Saad Masood 2-38)
Pakistan Shaheens 151 all out, 19.3 overs (Maaz Sadaqat 32, Saad Masood 30; James Coles 4-18, Sonny Baker 2-24, Scott Currie 2-30) Player of the match – James Coles (England Lions).
