International Pakistanis XI too strong for PCA England Masters
It was a great day at the home of cricket - Lord's - on Thursday, when the International Pakistanis XI came over convincing winners against the PCA England Masters.
The International Pakistanis XI batted first, compiling a formidable 263 for one. Kamran Akmal (50), fresh from his success in the Caribbean Premier League, Awais Zia (64) and Fawad Alam (52) were the main run-getters, giving the crowd plenty to cheer about as sixes rained all over the Nursery Ground.
It was always going to be a tough chase for the PCA England Masters and although Usman Afzaal (40) and Paul Nixon (45) batted well, it was Monty Panesar (59) who top scored.
The main wickets were shared out between Rana Naved-ul-Hasan, Amir Sohail, and Faisal Iqbal, who all took two apiece, leaving the England Masters wanting at 225 for seven at the close of play.
Between the innings, fans were able to bowl and field to the Pakistani batsmen and the PCA Masters provided a coaching masterclass for some lucky young cricketers as well.
After the match, the players and spectators were entertained with an auction in aid of the Keech Hospice and prize giving.
Commenting on the day Mo Ahmed of ICAssociation, who helped organise the event with the International Cricketers XI, said:
"It was a marvellous day and I would just like to thank all the players, the MCC, the match officials, guests and sponsors for all their support in helping to raise funds for the Keech Hospice and providing a highly entertaining event.
"We will be taking international players closer to their fans in coming months and years. If you would like to play against International Cricketers XI please get in touch with us."
Email [email protected] or tweet @icassociation.
© Cricket World 2015