Shamyl-led PTV shatter 232-year record with historic 40-run defense

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Television (PTV), led by captain Shamyl Hussain, produced one of the most extraordinary results in the 232-year history of first-class cricket by successfully defending a target of just 40 runs against Shan Masood’s Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) in the President’s Trophy Grade I in Karachi.

According to ESPNcricinfo, no team has ever defended a smaller total in first-class cricket. The previous record dated back to 1794, when Oldfield defended 41 against MCC at Lord’s Old Ground.

Chasing 40 for victory at the National Bank Stadium, SNGPL collapsed for 37 in 19.4 overs, handing PTV a dramatic two-run win. Left-arm spinner Ali Usman delivered a match-defining spell of 6 for 9, while fast bowler Amad Butt claimed the remaining four wickets, sealing a historic finish.

The result defied the match narrative. PTV were dismissed for 166 in the first innings before SNGPL responded with 238, securing a 72-run lead. Although the pitch deteriorated rapidly, PTV’s second-innings total of 111 appeared insufficient, setting SNGPL a modest target that ultimately proved unreachable.

Reacting to the achievement, digital creator Shahzaib Ali wrote on X:

“Unbelievable scenes at National Bank Stadium, Karachi, as PTV successfully defended a target of just 40 runs against a strong SNGPL batting lineup. Ali Usman once again showcased his brilliance, producing a sensational spell of six wickets for just nine runs.”

Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar also praised the side, singling out leadership and merit-based selection.

“Immense pride in watching PTV create history by defending 40 runs in the fourth innings. Ali Usman and Amad Butt were outstanding under pressure, complemented by a superb display of captaincy from Shamyl Hussain,” he said.

The victory was PTV’s third in four matches, reinforcing their emergence as one of the tournament’s strongest teams. In a season marked by low-scoring encounters, this match has etched itself into cricket’s global record books.

More than two centuries after the last such feat, PTV’s extraordinary defense stands as a reminder that in red-ball cricket, no target is too small, and no result is ever certain.