Port Qasim Authority qualify for first-class cricket

Pakistan's Port Qasim Authority (PQA) qualified for first-class cricket after drawing with Karachi Electric Supply Company (KESC) in the final of the PCB Patron's Trophy (Grade II) tournament. Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Sami's all-round performance helped PQA secure promotion, while United Bank Limited was relegated to Grade II from Division 2.

PQA declared their first innings at 343, with Shadab Kabir scoring 68, Daniyal Ahsan 57,Atif Ali Zaidi 45 and Sami 43. Rizwan Khan claimed four wickets for KESC. Sami then took four wickets and Azam Khan three to restrict KESC to 263 in their first innings.

PQA continued their good form with the bat in the second innings, setting an imposing total of 484, with Sami top scoring with 79 and Kamran Younis 71. KESC went all out for the win but could only manage 311 for 6 in 74 overs.

PQA coach Rashid Latif told the Express Tribune that he's confident his side would succeed in the future. "It feels great to guide this excellent side to the top-tier and I'm hoping we will repeat our heroics there as well. We probably have one of the best squads in the department," Latif said

In Pakistan's domestic cricket, teams are promoted and relegated each season on the basis of performance. One Departmental team from Division I is demoted to Division II for the next season. Similarly, the leading departmental team from Division II gets promoted to Division I. The departmental side finishing lowest in Division II will be relegated to Grade II for the upcoming season.