Imam-ul-Haq, Ben Cliff Star as Yorkshire Cruise to Victory Over Warwickshire in One-Day Cup Opener

Imam-ul-Haq, Ben Cliff Star as Yorkshire Cruise to Victory Over Warwickshire in One-Day Cup Opener

Yorkshire kicked off their Metro Bank One-Day Cup campaign with a commanding five-wicket victory over Warwickshire at Scarborough, thanks to a sensational maiden five-wicket haul from young pacer Ben Cliff and a composed half-century by Pakistan international Imam-ul-Haq.

Cliff, 22, making his return to the first team after recovering from a side injury, delivered a fiery opening spell that tore through Warwickshire’s top order. He finished with figures of 5 for 46 from 8.3 overs, setting up Yorkshire's chase of a modest 138. His early burst reduced the visitors to a shocking 24 for 5 within the first 10 overs.

Warwickshire’s innings was held together almost single-handedly by 20-year-old Vaansh Jani, who scored a gritty 82 off 92 balls — his maiden first-team half-century in just his second appearance. Jani struck six fours and five sixes, including a record-breaking 64-run partnership for the 10th wicket with Oliver Hannon-Dalby, who added just a single run to the tally. The Bears were eventually bowled out for 137 in 36.3 overs.

Adam Lyth was instrumental in the field, taking four catches in the slips, equalling Yorkshire's club record for most outfield catches in a List A innings.

Yorkshire’s chase wasn’t without hiccups, as they lost wickets at regular intervals on a challenging surface. Lyth (9), Will Luxton (25), James Wharton (6), and Matthew Revis (0) fell cheaply, with the hosts at one stage struggling at 72 for 4 in the 21st over.

However, Imam-ul-Haq’s calm presence at the crease proved vital. The left-hander scored a measured 55 from 83 balls, hitting his first five scoring shots for boundaries and showcasing strong driving and pulling technique. He built a crucial 56-run partnership with George Hill (20*), guiding Yorkshire close to the target.

Imam eventually fell with just 10 runs needed, caught at deep square-leg, but the damage had been done. Yorkshire reached their target in 32.5 overs, sealing the win with 17.1 overs to spare.

With this win, Yorkshire begin their Group B campaign on a high, while Warwickshire — last season’s semi-finalists — will be left to regroup after a poor start.

 

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