Watch: Mohammad Abbas claimed a spectacular six-wicket haul for State Bank of Pakistan in their President’s Trophy opener against Pakistan Television, setting up a ten-wicket victory.

Bowling first, he razed the opposition for 66, taking 6-19 in 11 overs, including three maidens. His wickets included both openers, and he followed the performance with a four-for in the second innings. Pakistan Television put up a better fight, making 339, but they could not avert defeat.

Abbas hasn’t played for Pakistan since August 2021, despite boasting an excellent Test record and piling up first-class wickets in Pakistan and in county cricket for Hampshire since his axing. He has 90 wickets in 25 Tests at an average of 23, and now has 670 first-class wickets at 20.45. This was his 44th five-wicket haul in first-class cricket. With Pakistan picking an inexperienced attack to tour Australia, it is a point of frustration for some fans that the 33-year-old remains on the outer.

The President’s Trophy marks the return of departmental cricket to Pakistan, but has been met with controversy. Pundit Bazid Khan has railed against some of the competition’s rules, which include limiting first innings to 80 overs. Sui Southern Gas Pipelines also pulled out of the tournament days before it got underway.

Watch Mohammad Abbas’ six-for below:

A 44th career five-wicket haul for @RealMAbbas226 🙌

Mo had match figures of 10/122 playing in the President's Trophy over in Pakistan! 🇵🇰

Congratulations, Mo 👏 pic.twitter.com/5R5SZ7QGBC

— Hampshire Cricket (@hantscricket) December 18, 2023