After a nail-biting encounter, Islamabad United won the second elimination match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 against Peshawar Zalmi. Both teams fought tooth and nail throughout the game to reach the final.
Imad Wasim and Haider Ali Shine
The Peshawar Zalmi team batted first, scoring 185 runs for the loss of five wickets. Saim Ayub’s explosive innings of 73 off 44 balls set the tone, but the partnership between Mohammad Haris (40) and Rovman Powell (2) propelled them to a challenging total. Naseem Shah’s fiery bowling (3-30) kept the pressure on Islamabad.
In response, Islamabad United faced early setbacks, losing key wickets, including Alex Hales and Babar Azam. However, the heroics of Imad Wasim and Haider Ali turned the tide. Wasim’s unbeaten 59 off 40 balls and Ali’s blistering 52 not out off 29 balls, including five sixes, gave Islamabad victory. Their match-winning partnership of 98 runs in just eight overs sealed the deal.
Shadab Khan’s All-Round Performance
Captain Shadab Khan played a pivotal role in the field, taking four crucial catches and dismissing Saim Ayub. His leadership and fielding prowess were instrumental in restricting Peshawar’s total. The left-arm spinner Mehran Mumtaz also chipped in, claiming Shadab Khan’s wicket.
Peshawar’s Spin Strategy
Peshawar Zalmi experimented with a three-spinner attack for the first time this season. Saim Ayub’s off-spin yielded two crucial wickets, while left-arm Mehran Mumtaz and leg-spinner Babar Azam kept the pressure on Islamabad. However, their efforts fell short against the determined batting duo of Wasim and Ali.
Road to the Final
With this thrilling win, Islamabad United secures a place in the PSL final, where they will face Multan Sultans. The final promises to be an intense battle as both teams vie for the coveted title. Having won two titles in the first three PSL seasons, Islamabad aims to add another trophy to its collection.
The PSL 2024 has been a rollercoaster ride, and fans can expect more fireworks in the showdown. Stay tuned for an electrifying clash between the best teams in Pakistan’s premier T20 league!
