RAWALPINDI: Islamabad United secured a thrilling three-wicket victory over table-toppers Multan Sultans in the 27th match of the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Sunday. With this crucial victory, Islamabad United confirmed their place in the playoffs of the PSL season nine.
Facing a formidable target of 229 runs set by Multan Sultans, Islamabad United showcased remarkable resilience as they successfully chased down the total in the final over of the match, with Imad Wasim steering his team to a crucial win with his composed batting.
Earlier, Multan Sultans had posted an imposing total of 228/4 in their allotted twenty overs, fueled by a scintillating century from Usman Khan. Khan’s explosive knock of 100 runs off just 50 balls propelled his team to the highest total of PSL 9. Supported by contributions from Johnson Charles and Iftikhar Ahmed, Khan scored key partnerships to bolster Multan Sultans’ innings.
In response, Islamabad United’s chase was bolstered by Colin Munro and Shadab Khan’s half-centuries, laying the groundwork for a nail-biting finish. Despite facing a formidable target, Islamabad United maintained their composure, with Imad Wasim delivering a decisive performance in the final moments to secure victory for his team.
With this win, Islamabad United joins Multan Sultans and Peshawar Zalmi in the PSL 9 playoffs, leaving just one spot remaining. The competition for the final playoff berth intensifies as Karachi Kings and Quetta Gladiators vie for the coveted position in the knockout stage.
For Islamabad United, Ashraf led the bowling with figures of 2-32 in his three overs, while Hunain Shah and Naseem Shah bagged one wicket each.
Multan Sultans Playing XI
Mohammad Rizwan (c), Yasir Khan, Tayyab Tahir, Usman Khan, Johnson Charles, Iftikhar Ahmed, Chris Jordan, David Willey, Usama Mir, Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Ali.
Islamabad United Playing XI
Shadab Khan (c), Alex Hales, Colin Munro, Salman Ali Agha, Azam Khan (wk), Haider Ali, Imad Wasim, Faheem Ashraf, Hunain Shah, Naseem Shah, Tymal Mills.
