Azan Awais Shines in Quaid-e-Azam Trophy Victory for Sialkot
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Sialkot Claims Third Quaid-e-Azam Trophy Title
Sialkot Region celebrated a thrilling one-wicket victory over Peshawar Region on 5 January 2025 at the UBL Sports Complex, Karachi. This win secured their third Quaid-e-Azam Trophy title and marked the culmination of a stellar 2024-25 first-class season. Sialkot’s campaign included five wins and three draws across eight matches.
This victory highlighted teamwork and individual brilliance, particularly from Azan Awais, whose contributions proved pivotal in securing the trophy.
- Sialkot played eight matches, winning five and drawing three.
- The final against Peshawar was decided by just one wicket.
- Azan Awais emerged as the tournament’s leading scorer with 844 runs.
Azan Awais: The Rising Star
The 20-year-old Azan Awais, a product of Pakistan’s ICC U19 World Cup 2024 squad, made an impressive debut season in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. With 844 runs in 13 innings, he topped the batting charts, maintaining a stellar average of 76.73. His achievements included four centuries, with a highest score of 203 not out.
Azan reflected on his journey:
“I’ve learned so much from this experience. The support from my team management and seniors has been incredible. Scoring runs in different conditions has boosted my confidence.”
Memorable Performances
- First-Class Debut: Azan began his career with an impressive 51-run knock against FATA Region at Jinnah Stadium, Gujranwala.
- Maiden Century: In his third match, he scored 130 against Dera Murad Jamali.
- This innings featured 20 fours and formed part of a 312-run opening stand with Ashir Mehmood.
- Double Century: Against Peshawar, Azan played a marathon innings of 203 not out, lasting over five hours.
Secrets Behind Azan’s Success
Azan credited his improvement to hard work and guidance from coaches, including Mansoor Amjad and the Panthers’ coaching staff. He emphasized the importance of adapting to challenging conditions and maintaining focus.
“Batting with the Dukes ball requires discipline. I learned to concentrate even after reaching milestones, knowing my role as an opener is crucial for the team,” he shared.
Azan’s Year in Numbers
- Pakistan U19: Represented the team on their South Africa tour.
- Grade-II President’s Trophy: Scored 504 runs in four matches for Sabir’s Poultry.
- List A Debut: Played in the Champions One-Day Cup in September 2024.
What’s Next for Azan?
Azan’s next challenge is the President’s Trophy Grade-I, starting 8 January 2025. He will represent Eshaal Associates in this departmental first-class tournament.
With his current form and determination, Azan Awais is poised to make a lasting impact in Pakistan’s domestic cricket.
Azan Awais’ Key Stats (2024-25 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy)
| Matches Played | Innings | Runs Scored | Average | Centuries | High Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 13 | 844 | 76.73 | 4 | 203* |
Why Azan Awais Is a Player to Watch
- Consistency: Azan consistently delivered across matches, scoring heavily in different conditions.
- Technique: His ability to handle both pace and spin has set him apart.
- Potential: At just 20, Azan has shown signs of becoming a key player for Pakistan cricket in the future.