The second day of the President's Trophy Grade-I 2025-26 saw decisive action across Karachi, with Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) seizing a significant advantage against defending champions Pakistan Television (PTV), powered by a determined century from Haroon Arshad.
Haroon Arshad Anchors OGDCL Commanding Lead
At the UBL Sports Complex, Haroon Arshad scored a resolute 104 runs from 210 deliveries, marking his third first-class hundred and his second in consecutive matches. His innings, decorated with 14 boundaries, was the cornerstone of OGDCL's total of 302 all out in 90.2 overs. This gave them a substantial 103-run first-innings lead after bowling PTV out for 199 on the first day.
Resuming at 73 for 1, OGDCL lost Israrullah after he made 53. However, Haroon built a crucial 138-run partnership with Umar Siddiq, who contributed a steady 56. The team later experienced a collapse, losing their final eight wickets for just 84 runs.
Israr Hussain's Valiant Seven-Wicket Haul in Vain
Despite OGDCL's strong position, PTV's Israr Hussain emerged as a standout performer with the ball. The bowler delivered an impressive spell, claiming 7 wickets for 95 runs in 27.2 overs. This remarkable effort represented his third five-wicket haul in first-class cricket. In their second innings, PTV reached 22 without loss by stumps, but they still face a deficit of 81 runs.
Other Matches See Dominant Performances
At the NBP Sports Complex, State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) strengthened their position against Ghani Glass. Wicketkeeper-batter Muhammad Ghazi Ghori struck an unbeaten 113, his second first-class century, in a 143-run stand with Rameez Aziz (47 not out). SBP finished the day at 194 for 3 in their second innings, extending their overall lead to 222 runs. Earlier, veteran pacer Mohammad Abbas showcased his class, taking 6 for 27 to dismiss Ghani Glass for 174 and reaching the milestone of 850 first-class wickets.
Over at the National Bank Stadium, Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) put Sahir Associates under immense pressure, reducing them to 42 for 4 in pursuit of a 228-run target. KRL's pacer Arshad Iqbal had earlier secured his maiden five-wicket haul to bowl Sahir out for 123.
In the fourth fixture, Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) dominated Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL). Led by skipper Khalid Usman's aggressive 96, WAPDA gained a 129-run first-innings lead. SNGPL ended the day still trailing by a further 96 runs, setting up a challenging third day for them.
The second round of the prestigious domestic tournament has firmly gathered momentum, with OGDCL, SBP, KRL, and WAPDA all establishing commanding positions as they push for vital victories.
