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Faisal Akram's Fifer In Vain As Scorchers Pip Pakistan Shaheens In Low-Scoring Thriller

Debashis Sarangi

Pakistan Shaheens lost vs Perth Scorchers [Source: @khelshel/X]Pakistan Shaheens lost vs Perth Scorchers [Source: @khelshel/X]

Perth Scorchers held their nerves to steal a narrow two-wicket victory against Pakistan Shaheens in the eigth match of the ongoing Top End T20 tournament. Batting first, the Shaheens were bundled out for a paltry 111-run total. Despite Faisal Akram's sensational spell, the Scorchers kept their composure to go past the finish line with eleven balls to spare. 

Kelly Bags A Three-Wicket Haul As Shaheens Crumble

After winning the toss and opting to bat first, Pakistan Shaheens had a disastrous start to their innings, losing three crucial wickets for just eleven runs. While Khawaja Nafay recorded a silver duck, Yasir Khan and Abdul Samad were dismissed for single-digit scores. 

Mohammad Faiq, Maaz Sadaqat chipped in with valuable contributions before Saad Masood ensured the Shaheens breached the 100-run mark through a blistering 42-run knock. He struck three sixes during his 32-ball stay, with the Shaheens finishing their innings on 111 in 18.5 overs. 

Matthew Kelly was the pick of the bowlers for Perth Scorchers, scalping three key wickets for 14 runs. 

Faisal Akram Gets Five, But Scorchers Avoid Shocking Defeat

In response, the Scorchers also had a shaky start, with Teague Wyllie, Sam Fanning and Baxter Holt departing for low scores. Meanwhile, keeper-batter Joel Curtis scored a patient 30-ball 31, keeping his team alive in the game along side Nick Hobson, who contributed 27 runs with the help of one boundary and a six.

However, Pakistan's ace spinner Faisal Akram weaved his magic in the middle overs, helping the Shaheens claim the driving seat with a stunning spell. After getting Hobson, Akram spun a web, outfoxing Matthew Spoors, Luke Holt and Kelly in quick succession. 

But despite his valiant effort, the target turned out to be insufficient to defend in the end. Corey Rocchiccioli and Brody Couch remained unbeaten, ensuring the Scorchers got two crucial points after a hard-fought win. 

The Shaheens are placed third in the points table and will take on Melbourne Renegades in their third game on August 18.