Key Takeaways
- Several Test players and Under-19 cricketers are reinforcing departmental teams.
- Notable players include Babar Azam, Usman Tariq, and Abdullah Fazal.
- Teams like SNGPL and PTV are bolstered ahead of crucial matches.
The third round of the President’s Trophy Grade-I is set to commence on Thursday, with a host of Test cricketers and Pakistan Under-19 players joining their departmental teams. These reinforcements aim to strengthen the squads ahead of key matches in Islamabad, Abbottabad, and Peshawar.
Babar Azam and Razaullah have joined Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) for their fixture against Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) at Abbottabad Cricket Stadium. Mystery spinner Usman Tariq has also linked up with KRL, adding depth to their bowling attack.
Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL), who suffered a defeat in the second round, have been bolstered by the return of fast bowler Naseem Shah and top-order batter Abdullah Shafique. Additionally, Pakistan Under-19 players Farhan Yousuf, Abdul Subhan, and Hamza Zahoor have joined the SNGPL squad, bringing fresh talent to the team.
MIT Solutions have added fast bowler Aamir Jamal to their attack after their bowlers bowled 158 overs against KRL in the second round. Abdullah Fazal has joined State Bank of Pakistan, while experienced Test batter Saud Shakeel has linked up with Kingsmen Academy. Kingsmen’s batting struggled in their second-round defeat by OGDCL, and Fazal’s addition is expected to improve their performance.
Left-arm spinner Ali Usman will make his first appearance for Pakistan Television after his record-breaking 2025-26 season. PTV have drawn both their matches so far and will be seeking their first victory when they take on Kingsmen Academy at Diamond Cricket Ground in Islamabad. All-rounder Shadab Khan and left-arm spinner Noman Ali are expected to join Ghani Glass before the fourth round, further strengthening their pace attack.
Ghani Glass, who have already impressed with their pace attack, will be bolstered by the arrival of Ubaid Shah for their match against State Bank of Pakistan at National Ground in Islamabad. These reinforcements are expected to significantly impact the outcome of the third round matches.
