Peshawar Zalmi’s victory was their third in the PSL 10.
At the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Friday, Peshawar Zalmi defeated Islamabad United by six wickets, securing a much-needed victory in the 10th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
With newcomer Maaz Sadaqat and captain Babar Azam playing crucial roles in the successful run chase, Zalmi achieved their third victory of the season.
Zalmi got off to a spectacular start while chasing a modest target of 144. Mitchell Owen was removed on the very next delivery after hitting a six off the opening ball of Kyle Mayers’ over. Then Saim Ayub, the opener, was joined by Babar Azam. However, Ben Dwarshuis struck early to leave Zalmi reeling at 12-2, and Ayub fell soon, scoring just one run.
A 26-run partnership between Babar and Mohammad Haris attempted to settle the innings, but Haris was removed by Riley Meredith for 13. Zalmi appeared to be in trouble at 38-3.
At that point, Maaz Sadaqat, who was participating in his debut PSL game, took over. Together with Babar Azam, the young batter put the side in a strong position with a crucial 102-run partnership. With a calm and assured knock, Maaz made an impression, reaching his half-century and assisting Zalmi in gaining ground in the middle overs.
In addition to anchoring the innings and leading his team with poise, Babar Azam reached his 35th PSL fifty.
Maaz was outdone by Naseem Shah for an incredible 55 off 33 balls with just four runs remaining to win. In the 17th over, Babar stayed undefeated with 53 off 49 balls, while Max Bryant struck the winning runs.
Islamabad United won the toss earlier in the day and decided to bat first. They had a solid start thanks to a 58-run partnership from their openers, Sahibzada Farhan and Kyle Mayers. But after Ahmed Daniyal removed Farhan for 36, the innings rapidly stalled.
Soon after, Mayers fell for 18, and then there was a collapse of the middle order. Azam Khan was taken out by Luke Wood for eight, significantly diminishing Islamabad’s chances. In the field, Babar Azam also made an impression by running out Imad Wasim for 10 with a clean direct shot.
Ben Dwarshuis attempted to score a few quick runs in the closing stages, staying in the game at 33 off 17 balls, but Zalmi’s tight fielding and disciplined bowling held United to 143-9 after 20 overs.
Peshawar Zalmi continues to move up the PSL standings with their victory, while Islamabad United suffers their second loss of the year.
FAQs
Who were the standout performers for Peshawar Zalmi in the match?
Babar Azam and Maaz Sadaqat were the key contributors for Zalmi. Babar scored an unbeaten 53, while debutant Maaz impressed with a match-winning 55 off 33 balls.
What was the target Peshawar Zalmi had to chase?
Peshawar Zalmi successfully chased a target of 144 runs, set by Islamabad United, with six wickets in hand.
What was special about Maaz Sadaqat’s performance?
It was Maaz Sadaqat’s debut PSL match, and he played a mature knock of 55, forming a vital 102-run partnership with Babar Azam that turned the game.
How did Islamabad United perform with the bat?
Islamabad United started strong with a 58-run opening stand but faltered in the middle overs, managing only 143/9 in their 20 overs due to disciplined Zalmi bowling and fielding.
What impact did this win have on Peshawar Zalmi’s position in the PSL standings?
This win marked Zalmi’s third victory of the season and helped them climb higher in the PSL 10 standings, boosting their chances for playoff qualification.
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