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| Photo: PCB |
Multan Sultans: After being put into bat, Multan Sultans were off to a shaky start against the disciplined bowling of Islamabad United. Mohammad Rizwan and Usman Khan provided some resistance, but they struggled to build partnerships as wickets fell at regular intervals. Imad Wasim (5-23) and Shadab Khan applied immense pressure with their spin bowling, causing a collapse where Sultans lost 5 wickets for just 12 runs. However, a late blitz from Iftikhar Ahmed (32* off 20 balls) propelled them to a total of 159/9 in their 20 overs.
Islamabad United: In response, Islamabad United's chase began positively with Martin Guptill (50) providing a quick start. However, Sultans fought back with wickets at crucial intervals, keeping the chase tense. Guptill's aggressive innings and contributions from Azam Khan (24) and Iftikhar Ahmed (32) kept United in the game despite losing wickets. The match went down to the wire with Islamabad needing runs off the final over to win.
Key Moments:
Imad Wasim's All-round Brilliance: Imad Wasim turned the game with a spectacular bowling performance, taking 5 crucial wickets for just 23 runs. His spell in the middle overs broke the backbone of Sultans' batting lineup, restricting them to a modest total.
United's Batting Response: Despite losing wickets regularly, Islamabad United kept the required run rate in check throughout their innings. Martin Guptill's explosive innings provided the platform, while contributions from Azam Khan and Iftikhar Ahmed in the middle order kept United on track.
Final Over Drama: With Islamabad needing runs off the last over, the match hung in the balance. Iftikhar Ahmed, who had earlier excelled with the ball, delivered with the bat when it mattered most, hitting crucial boundaries to bring the equation down. The tension rose as United chased the target down off the final delivery, sealing their victory in a dramatic fashion.
Conclusion: The PSL final between Islamabad United and Multan Sultans was a gripping contest that saw Islamabad United emerge victorious by two wickets off the final ball. Imad Wasim's heroics with the ball and crucial contributions from Martin Guptill and Iftikhar Ahmed ensured Islamabad United successfully chased down Sultans' target of 159. The match will be remembered for its intense moments and the nerve-wracking finish, cementing Islamabad United's reputation as champions who thrive under pressure in PSL finals.
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