Pakistan Test Captain's Team Collapses Chasing Tiny Target
Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood experienced a shocking defeat in domestic cricket. His team, Sui National Gas Pipeline Limited, failed to chase a modest target of 40 runs. They were bowled out for just 37 runs, losing the match by a narrow margin of 2 runs.
Historic Record Broken After 232 Years
The Pakistan Television team successfully defended their total of 40 runs. This achievement broke a long-standing record in first-class cricket. The previous record for the smallest defended target dated back to 1794. Oldfield had defended 41 runs against Marylebone Cricket Club at that time.
Now, PTV has set a new benchmark by defending 40 runs. The match took place at the National Stadium in Karachi. This victory represents one of the most dramatic moments in Pakistan's domestic cricket history.
Bowling Dominance Seals Unlikely Victory
Pakistan Television's bowlers delivered an outstanding performance. Left-arm spinner Ali Usman played a crucial role. He bowled 9.4 overs, conceding only 9 runs while taking 6 wickets. His figures included an impressive 5 maiden overs.
Fast bowler Amad Butt provided excellent support. He bowled 10 overs, giving away 28 runs and capturing 4 wickets. Together, these two bowlers operated unchanged throughout the innings. They secured the victory in just 19.4 overs, wrapping up the match quickly.
Batting Collapse Features Multiple Ducks
The Sui Gas Pipeline batting lineup collapsed dramatically. Three batsmen, including captain Shan Masood, were dismissed without scoring. Masood fell for a duck, adding to his team's troubles.
Saifullah Bangash emerged as the top scorer with 14 runs. No other batter managed to reach double figures. The entire team struggled against the disciplined bowling attack from PTV.
Match Context and Tournament Standings
This dramatic collapse followed a strong first-innings performance by SNGPL. They had taken a 72-run lead after scoring 238 runs in their first innings. Pakistan Television had posted 166 in their first attempt.
In their second innings, PTV were dismissed for 111 runs. This set up what appeared to be a straightforward chase for SNGPL. However, the batting collapse changed the course of the match completely.
The President's Trophy features eight teams competing in this domestic tournament. The top two finishers will advance to the finals scheduled for February. Following this defeat, SNGPL has dropped to third position in the standings. Pakistan Television currently holds second place.
Historical Perspective on Low Targets
This match enters the record books for defended targets in first-class cricket. Here are some notable historical instances:
- 40 runs defended by Pakistan Television against Sui Northern Gas Pipeline in Karachi, 2025/26 season
- 41 runs defended by Oldfield against Marylebone Cricket Club at Lord's in 1794
- 42 runs defended by Eastern Province against Border in East London, 1946/47 season
- 44 runs defended by England against Kent and Sussex at Lord's in 1856
This recent match has rewritten cricket history. It demonstrates how unpredictable the sport can be, even when targets appear minimal.
Contrast with Recent Performance
The collapse comes as a particular surprise given Shan Masood's recent form. Just two weeks before this match, he scored a remarkable double century. He reached 200 runs in just 177 balls, setting a record for the fastest first-class double century.
This contrast highlights the unpredictable nature of cricket. Even top players can experience dramatic fluctuations in performance. The match serves as a reminder that no target is too small in competitive cricket.
