In an electrifying finale, Islamabad United emerged victorious against Multan Sultans in a nail-biting encounter to secure their third PSL title. The final, held at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi, witnessed a last-ball thriller, with Islamabad United prevailing by two wickets.
Match Highlights:
- Multan Sultans’ Innings: Opting to bat first, Multan Sultans posted a competitive total of 159/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Usman Khan’s fluent half-century and Iftikhar Ahmed’s late blitz propelled Sultans to a challenging score, despite a remarkable five-wicket haul by Imad Wasim.
- Imad Wasim’s Heroics: Imad Wasim’s exceptional bowling performance was the highlight of the innings, as he dismantled the Multan Sultans’ batting lineup with figures of 5-23, including a dramatic collapse in the latter stages.
- Islamabad United’s Chase: Chasing a target of 160 runs, Islamabad United faced early setbacks but managed to stay in the hunt, courtesy of a well-constructed half-century by Martin Guptill and crucial contributions from Azam Khan and Imad Wasim.
- Thrilling Last Over: With eight runs needed off the final over, Islamabad United found themselves in a tense situation. Naseem Shah’s dismissal on the penultimate ball left the scores level, but Hunain Shah held his nerve to hit the winning runs on the final delivery, sealing a memorable victory for Islamabad United.
Key Performers:
- Imad Wasim (Islamabad United): Imad Wasim’s all-round brilliance earned him the Player of the Match award. His impactful five-wicket haul with the ball and crucial unbeaten innings with the bat played a decisive role in Islamabad United’s triumph.
- Usman Khan (Multan Sultans): Usman Khan’s composed half-century laid the foundation for Multan Sultans’ innings, providing them with a competitive total to defend in the final.
- Martin Guptill (Islamabad United): Martin Guptill’s aggressive fifty at the top of the order set the tone for Islamabad United’s chase, ensuring they remained in contention throughout the innings.
Tournament Awards:
- Emerging Player of the Tournament: Muhammad Irfan Khan (Karachi Kings)
- All-Rounder of the Tournament: Saim Ayub (Peshawar Zalmi)
- Fielder of the Tournament: Muhammad Irfan Khan (Karachi Kings)
- Wicketkeeper of the Tournament: Azam Khan (Islamabad United)
- Bowler of the Tournament: Usama Mir (Multan Sultans)
- Batter of the Tournament: Usman Khan (Multan Sultans)
- Player of the Tournament: Shadab Khan (Islamabad United)
- Spirit of Cricket Award: Peshawar Zalmi
- Umpire of the Tournament: Asif Yaqoob
Conclusion:
Islamabad United’s thrilling triumph in the PSL 9 final showcased their resilience and determination, capping off a memorable campaign with a well-deserved championship title. The tournament witnessed outstanding performances from players across teams, contributing to the success and excitement of Pakistan’s premier T20 competition.
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