AFZAL JAVED

MANCHESTER: Friends United Cricket Club Manchester produced another impressive performance to defeat Ashton Ladysmith Cricket Club by five wickets in the Manchester Division Four Cricket League, climbing to second place in the standings.

Batting first, Ashton Ladysmith were bowled out for 138 in 41.5 overs. Sajid Saleemi top-scored with 49, while Basil George chipped in with 28.

Friends United’s bowling attack was led by Mohammad Abid Sohail, who produced a match-winning spell of 6 for 23. Sahil Mukhtar claimed two wickets, while Tanveer Mahmood and Saqib Butt took one wicket each.

In reply, Friends United comfortably chased down the target, reaching 139-5 in the 36th over. Rameez Alam anchored the innings with 43, while Qazi Waqas (29), Aijaz Shah (25) and Saqib Butt (22) made valuable contributions to seal a convincing victory.

 Speaking to the media, Friends United captain Muhammad Faraz praised his team’s outstanding performances throughout the season and expressed confidence that the club can secure the top spot in the Manchester Division Four Cricket League by maintaining its winning momentum in the remaining matches. “I am delighted with the way our players have performed this season. We are playing our best cricket, and our goal is very clear—to finish at the top of the league table,” Faraz said.

The win moved Friends United up to second place in the Manchester Division Four Cricket League, which will continue until next month.