The Hanif Mohammad Trophy 2025 continued to test Karachi’s two representative sides on Day 2, with Karachi Whites and Karachi Blues showcasing flashes of brilliance but also facing stern challenges in their respective encounters.
Maaz Khurram shines for Whites
At the Multan Cricket Stadium, Karachi Whites found themselves under pressure after Faisalabad posted a formidable 387 all out in 123.5 overs. The innings was powered by an outstanding marathon knock from Abdul Samad, who struck 191 off 310 deliveries, featuring patience, timing, and resilience. He was well supported by Ali Shan’s 61 off 140 balls, building a foundation that left Karachi chasing the game.
However, the standout performance of the innings came from Karachi’s pacer Maaz Khurram, who delivered a career-defining spell. The young spinner returned exceptional figures of 6 for 75, ripping through Faisalabad’s middle and lower order with control and variety. His performance was the lone bright spark for the Whites in an otherwise tough day with the ball.
In reply, Karachi Whites struggled against disciplined bowling from Faisalabad’s attack. By stumps, the Whites were reduced to 132 for 7 in 38 overs, still trailing by 255 runs. Afnan Khan (22 off 19)* offered some late resistance, while Khawaja Nafay (21 off 37) showed promise at the top. But with Ahmad Safi Abdullah claiming 3 for 33, Karachi will need a monumental effort to avoid conceding a massive first-innings deficit.
Weather spoils Karachi Blues’ fun
Over in Karachi, the Blues faced a frustrating day as weather disruptions robbed them of crucial time against Dera Murad Jamali Region at the National Bank Stadium. With only 45 overs of play possible, Karachi Blues managed to put themselves in a fighting position despite limited opportunities.
DM Jamali closed the day on 146 for 7, with Abubakar (39 off 59) and Dawood Khan (35 off 74)* fighting hard against Karachi’s bowlers. The Blues’ bowling attack impressed in the truncated session, led by Saqib Khan’s 3 for 51, while Fahad Amin (2 for 26) and Muhammad Umar (2 for 34) chipped in effectively.
The interruptions meant Karachi Blues lost more than one and a half days of play, severely denting their hopes of pushing for a result.
For Karachi Whites, the immediate challenge lies in salvaging their innings against Faisalabad’s imposing total. Much will depend on their lower order to cut down the deficit and stay in the contest. Meanwhile, Karachi Blues will hope the weather clears in the coming days to give them a fair shot at converting their bowling effort into match-winning momentum.
As the Hanif Mohammad Trophy unfolds, both Karachi sides continue to show individual brilliance, but the road ahead demands consistency if they are to remain in contention for qualification into the prestigious Quaid-e-Azam Trophy 2025–26.
