LAHORE: Pakistan TV (PTV) scripted a remarkable chapter in cricket history by defending the lowest total ever in first-class cricket, clinching a dramatic two-run victory over Sui Northern in the President’s Trophy on Saturday.
Set a seemingly straightforward target of 40, Sui Northern collapsed for just 37, allowing the team representing the country’s state broadcaster to break a 231-year-old record. The previous mark had stood since August 1794, when Oldfield successfully defended 41 against the Marylebone Cricket Club.
PTV appeared out of contention earlier in the match after being dismissed for 166 in the first innings, conceding a 72-run lead. Their prospects dimmed further when they were bowled out for only 111 in the second innings in Karachi.
However, a sharply deteriorating pitch on the third day turned the contest on its head. PTV’s bowlers exploited the conditions superbly, with Ali Usman leading the charge by claiming six wickets for nine runs, while Amad Butt took four for 28, as Sui Northern suffered a stunning collapse to hand PTV a historic win.
