LAHORE: Azan Ahmed produced a superb all-round performance to give Rawalpindi U17 a slender advantage over Lahore Blues U17 on the opening day of their National U17 Cup triangular stage clash at the Iqbal Stadium.
After Lahore Blues opted to bat first, they were bowled out for 167 in 50.3 overs. The innings was anchored by Daud Tauqir Rana, who struck a patient 93 off 139 balls with 10 fours and two sixes. He was supported by Mohammad Essa, who contributed 35 off 87 balls.
Rawalpindi’s bowlers kept the pressure on, with Azan leading the charge. He returned figures of 4 for 28 in 10.3 overs, while Mohammad Ibrahim, Mohammad Yasir, and Sher Wali Khan chipped in with two wickets apiece.
In reply, Rawalpindi reached 180 for nine in 39 overs at stumps, securing a 13-run lead.
Batting at number four, Azan top-scored with a brisk 40 off 36 balls, hitting five boundaries and two sixes.
.His knock was crucial in stabilizing the innings after early wickets.
