In a thrilling encounter, Islamabad United clinched a spot in the final of HBL PSL for the first time since 2018, defeating Peshawar Zalmi by five wickets in the Eliminator Two match. The match witnessed a record-breaking seventh-wicket partnership between Imad Wasim and Haider Ali, guiding Islamabad United to victory with an over to spare.
Match Summary:
Peshawar Zalmi posted a competitive total of 185/5 batting first, thanks to impressive contributions from their top-order batters. However, Islamabad United chased down the target in a remarkable fashion, with Imad Wasim and Haider Ali forging an unbeaten partnership to guide their team to victory and secure a spot in the final.
Key Performances:
- Imad Wasim (Islamabad United): Imad Wasim played a captain’s innings, remaining unbeaten on 59 runs off just 40 balls. His composed batting under pressure and crucial partnership with Haider Ali proved to be the difference-maker for Islamabad United.
- Haider Ali (Islamabad United): Haider Ali showcased his batting prowess with a brilliant knock of 52 not out off 29 balls. His aggressive stroke play and ability to accelerate the run-rate in the crucial stages of the match were instrumental in Islamabad United’s successful run-chase.
- Saim Ayub (Peshawar Zalmi): Despite being on the losing side, Saim Ayub delivered an impressive all-round performance. He scored a vital 73 runs at the top of the order and also picked up two wickets with the ball to keep Peshawar Zalmi in contention.
Turning Point:
- The partnership between Imad Wasim and Haider Ali turned the tide in favor of Islamabad United. Their record-breaking seventh-wicket stand of 98 runs provided the team with the momentum needed to chase down the target and secure a place in the final.
Impactful Bowling:
- Naseem Shah (Islamabad United): Naseem Shah was the pick of the bowlers for Islamabad United, claiming three crucial wickets while conceding 30 runs in his four overs. His disciplined bowling performance helped restrict Peshawar Zalmi to a manageable total.
Conclusion:
Islamabad United’s victory over Peshawar Zalmi showcased their resilience and determination to succeed in pressure situations. The historic partnership between Imad Wasim and Haider Ali will be remembered as one of the standout moments of HBL PSL 9, propelling Islamabad United into the final against Multan Sultans.
Player of the Match:
Imad Wasim’s exceptional batting performance earned him the Player of the Match award, recognizing his pivotal role in Islamabad United’s victory and qualification for the final of HBL PSL 9.
Next Fixture:
Cricket fans can look forward to an exhilarating showdown between Multan Sultans and Islamabad United in the final of HBL PSL 9 at the National Bank Stadium, Karachi. Both teams will battle it out for the prestigious championship title in what promises to be an enthralling contest.
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