The opening round of the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy 2025-26 concluded on Thursday with all five fixtures across Abbottabad, Islamabad, Peshawar, and Rawalpindi ending in stalemates, as batters dominated the final day’s play.
At the Imran Khan Stadium in Peshawar, the home side’s senior duo Mohammad Rizwan and Mohammad Haris orchestrated a commanding reply against Sialkot, both registering memorable centuries to ensure Peshawar’s control before the match drifted to a draw.
Resuming on 154 for four, the pair showcased a blend of composure and aggression in a partnership that underlined Peshawar’s depth and stability. Rizwan, resuming in his trademark measured rhythm, anchored the innings to his 15th first-class century – an unbeaten 123 off 203 balls, laced with 13 boundaries and a six.
At the other end, Haris complemented his captain’s poise with youthful audacity. Playing with freedom and intent, the wicketkeeper-batter registered his maiden first-class hundred, scoring a run-a-ball 100 not out off 113 deliveries, decorated with 11 fours and four sixes. Their unbroken partnership powered Peshawar to a declaration at 376 for five in 102.4 overs, setting up an academic chase.
In response, Sialkot began positively, their top order finding fluency in the fading light. Mohsin Riaz smashed a brisk 67 off 56 balls, featuring nine fours and two sixes, while Azan Awais held the other end with a steady 52 not out. The pair added 111 for the third wicket, before debutant Sufyan Moqim claimed his first first-class wicket, dismissing Mohsin to mark a personal milestone.
Sialkot were 156 for three in 29 overs when both captains agreed to settle for a draw — a fitting conclusion to a round where bowlers toiled and batters reigned.
The next round of the tournament begins on Sunday, 12 October, as teams look to build early momentum in Pakistan’s premier red-ball competition.
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