Lahore, Two of Pakistan’s top cricketing squads, Faisalabad, captained by Faheem Ashraf, and Karachi Whites, led by Sarfaraz Ahmed, are gearing up for a crucial face-off in the 2023-24 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy final. The much-anticipated match will span from 22 to 26 October at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. Both teams aim to clinch this distinguished first-class title, which carries even more weight this year, as it’s the inaugural premier tournament since the revival of the domestic structure under the 2014 PCB Constitution.
According to a news release by Pakistan Cricket Board, As disclosed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, prior to the reinstatement of the 2014 PCB Constitution, was clinched by Northern, who dominated over Sindh by an innings and 55 runs. The competition saw Northern’s Mohammad Huraira and Mubasir Khan rise to prominence, while Sindh’s spinner, Abrar Ahmed, with his outstanding 43-wicket haul in 12 innings, secured his position in the national team.
The re-established structure featured eight regional teams, including Lahore Whites, Lahore Blues, Rawalpindi, FATA, Peshawar, Multan, Karachi Whites, and Faisalabad. These teams competed in the round-robin stage, where they played seven matches each from 10 September to 19 October across Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Abbottabad. Faisalabad emerged at the pinnacle with 108 points and three victories, closely followed by Karachi Whites who secured 100 points and two wins. Lahore Blues narrowly missed the final spot, gathering 99 points with two wins.
The impending clash between Faisalabad and Karachi Whites is touted to be an electrifying encounter. Both squads boast of seasoned captains with notable international experience. Faheem has donned the national jersey in 16 Tests, while Sarfaraz, an erstwhile Pakistan Test captain, has represented the country in 53 Tests. Noteworthy players from Karachi Whites, such as Sarfaraz Ahmed and Asad Shafiq, have had a remarkable season, with the former amassing 579 runs in six matches. On the other hand, Faisalabad’s right-arm pacer, Khurram Shahzad, leads the wicket-taking charts with 31 dismissals.
In the run-up to the final, both captains expressed their enthusiasm and confidence. Faheem Ashraf emphasized the team’s focus and momentum, while Sarfaraz Ahmed highlighted the blend of experienced and budding talents in the squad that has benefited their strategy throughout the tournament.
Furthermore, in the grade-II Hanif Mohammad Trophy, renamed under the new structure, the ultimate round is slated from 22 to 25 October. The champion of this 10-team contest will earn a spot in the next season of the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, whereas FATA, having secured the last position, will be demoted to the grade-II championship. Currently, Islamabad leads the Super-Four stage with 48 points.
The upcoming fixtures for the concluding round of the Super-Four stage of the Hanif Mohammad Trophy are:
Quetta vs. Islamabad at Multan Cricket Stadium
Abbottabad vs. Hyderabad at Sheikh Khalifa Sports Complex, Rahim Yar Khan.