Sheikhupura's top order batsmen dazzled on the opening day of the National Under-19 Grade-I Championship as they handed Islamabad a 68-run defeat at the KRL Stadium Saturday.

After batting first, Sheikhupura helped by fine knocks from Kashif Imran (89), Khalil Ahmed (63) and Javed Hussain (76) scored an impressive 269 for six off their 50 overs.

Islamabad however ran out of overs in the end finishing on 201 for nine with Rashid Amin Butt (63) and Shakir Mahmood (43) doing some good work.

Sheikhupura opener Kashif Imran was in cracking form, hammering the Islamabad bowlers to all parts of the ground in scoring 89 that included 13 strikes to the fence.

Kashif was ably assisted by Khalil Ahmed who was equally impressive as he contributed 63 with eight boundaries. Also among the runs was Javed Hussain with a valuable 76.

When Islamabad batted they suffered some quick blows and it was only later in the innings that Rashid and Shakir lent some kind of respectability to the total. The two sides now start a three-day game to be played at the same venue from Sunday.