Karachi(News Network Pakistan)In a nail-biting final showdown at the National Cricket stadium in Karachi, Islamabad United emerged victorious against Multan Sultans, securing their third Pakistan Super League (PSL) title. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Multan Sultans posted a competitive total of 159 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their allotted 20 overs.
Chasing the target, Islamabad United reached the mark on the last ball of the 20th over, thanks to stellar performances from Martin Guptill, who scored a crucial 50 runs, and Azam Khan, contributing 30 runs. United’s all-rounder Imad Wasim played a pivotal role with an unbeaten 19, while Colin Munro and Naseem Shah added valuable innings of 17 runs each.
Multan Sultans faced early setbacks with their first two wickets falling at just 14 runs, but Mohammad Rizwan and Usman Khan steadied the ship with a partnership of 53 runs. Usman Khan’s impressive knock of 57 runs anchored the innings, while Iftikhar Ahmed’s fiery 32-run cameo lifted Sultans’ total to 159 runs.
In a sensational bowling display, Imad Wasim starred for Islamabad United, claiming 5 wickets, while Shadab Khan picked up 3 crucial scalps to dismantle Multan Sultans’ batting line-up.
Imad Wasim was rightfully awarded the Man of the Match for his stellar all-round performance. This victory marks Islamabad United’s third PSL title, adding to their previous triumphs in 2016 and 2018.
Both teams showcased exceptional skill and determination throughout the tournament, with Multan Sultans securing their spot in the final by defeating Peshawar Zalmi in the qualifier, while Islamabad United battled through the eliminator rounds, overcoming Quetta Gladiators and Peshawar Zalmi to reach the final stage.
The Islamabad United squad for the final comprised captain Shadab Khan, Colin Munro, Martin Guptill, Salman Ali Agha, Azam Khan, Hyder Ali, Imad Wasim, Faheem Ashraf, Naseem Shah, Haneen Shah, and Obaid McCoy. Meanwhile, Multan Sultans were led by captain Muhammad Rizwan, with a team including Yasir Khan, Usman Khan, Johnson Charles, Iftikhar Ahmed, Khushdil Shah, Chris Jordan, David Wali, Usama Mir, Muhammad Ali, and Abbas Afridi.
