Pakistan domestic team breaks 232-year-old cricket record with historic performance

Pakistan’s domestic cricket witnessed a historic moment as Pakistan Television (PTV) defended the lowest target ever in first-class cricket during their 2025-26 President’s Trophy match against Sui Northern Gas Pipeline Limited (SNGPL) at the National Stadium in Karachi.

SNGPL needed just 40 runs in the final innings to win the match with all 10 wickets in hand. What happened next stunned everyone, as they were bowled out for only 37, handing defending champions PTV a shocking two-run victory.

What happened in the match?

PTV had scored 166 and 111 in their two innings, while SNGPL looked in full control after making 238 in their first innings. This gave PTV a slim lead of 39 runs, and SNGPL were expected to chase the target comfortably.

However, SNGPL suffered a dramatic collapse in their second innings. The top order failed badly, with the first five batters scoring only 13 runs combined. Saifullah Bangash top-scored with just 14 runs and was the only batter to enter double digits, showing how tough the conditions became.

Left-arm spinner Ali Usman was the star of the match for PTV. He picked up six wickets for just nine runs in the second innings and finished with a 10-wicket haul after taking four wickets in the first innings as well. Fast bowler Amad Butt also played a key role, claiming four wickets in the second innings while conceding 28 runs in 10 overs.

PTV’s incredible bowling effort helped them defend the lowest target ever in world first-class cricket. The previous record had stood for 232 years, set in 1794 when Marylebone Cricket Club bowled out Oldfield for 34 while defending a target of 41 at the old Lord’s.

The win moved PTV to second place in the table, while SNGPL slipped to third. PTV have now won three of their four matches, while SNGPL have won two and lost two. The top two teams will qualify directly for the final, which is scheduled to be held on February 12.

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