01/08/2026
π Pre-Season Warm-Up Match
Riyadh Rams vs Almarai C.C
π Almarai Cricket Ground, Al Kharj
π Night Match | 31 July 2026
As the new season approaches, Riyadh Rams made an emphatic statement in their pre-season warm-up, producing an outstanding all-round performance against Almarai C.C.
More than just a friendly, the match was an important opportunity to stay in rhythm, build combinations, and maintain match fitness ahead of the competitive season, and the Rams responded in style.
π₯ Batting Sets the Platform
Winning the toss and batting first under the lights, Riyadh Rams built their innings around a magnificent unbeaten century from πIjaz Khan, who showcased patience, timing, and excellent shot selection to carry his bat through the innings. His knock was the backbone of the Ramsβ imposing total.
At the top of the order, πHafiz Talha provided the perfect start, playing positively and ensuring the Rams gained early momentum.
As the innings progressed, the middle and lower order turned the pressure up. Barkat Ali once again displayed his trademark power-hitting with an explosive cameo, while Shery matched the intensity with aggressive stroke play in the closing overs, helping Riyadh Rams finish with a commanding total that put Almarai firmly on the back foot at their own home turf
π― Bowlers Take Complete Control
Defending a strong score, Riyadh Ramsβ bowlers executed their plans brilliantly from the very first over.
β The star of the evening was debutant βοΈ Zeeshan, who announced himself in spectacular fashion by claiming five wickets. Bowling with impressive pace, accuracy, and confidence, his spell dismantled the Almarai batting lineup and marked a dream debut in Rams colours.
Supporting him brilliantly was βοΈImran, whose fierce pace and relentless aggression created constant pressure from the opposite end. Together, the pair formed a lethal new-ball partnership that never allowed the opposition to settle.
During the middle overs, Sheryβs disciplined spin bowling and Talhaβs accurate medium pace kept the scoring under control, drying up runs and forcing mistakes. The bowling unit worked together seamlessly, eventually bundling Almarai C.C out cheaply.
π Fielding That Made the Difference
The Rams were equally impressive in the field, showing outstanding energy and commitment throughout the night.
π Abbas Kayani, barkat & sheryheld onto a couple of excellent catches, rewarding the bowlers with crucial breakthroughs.
π₯ The highlight of the fielding display came from Imran, whose spectacular diving catch will surely be remembered as the Catch of the Match.
π Looking Ahead
The victory was more than just a resultβit was a confidence booster heading into the new season. With the top order firing, the lower order finishing strongly, the bowlers operating with purpose, and the fielding reaching an excellent standard, Riyadh Rams look well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
A special congratulations to our co MAN OF THE MATCH to Zeeshan on a memorable debut and his outstanding five-wicket haul, and to Ijaz Khan for his superb unbeaten century.
The signs are extremely encouraging. Riyadh Rams are building momentum at exactly the right time.
