Shadab Khan Leads Islamabad United to Convincing Victory Over Lahore Qalandars

In a thrilling opening match of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 9, Islamabad United secured an emphatic eight-wicket victory over defending champions Lahore Qalandars at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Saturday night. The match witnessed an exceptional unbeaten knock of 74 by skipper Shadab Khan, supported by an impressive 64 not out by Salman Ali Agha, as they formed a formidable 138-run partnership for the third wicket.

Match Highlights: Chasing a target of 196 runs set by Lahore Qalandars, Islamabad United displayed confidence and determination from the outset. Despite losing opener Colin Munro early in the innings, United maintained a steady run rate, with Shadab Khan leading the charge. The skipper’s aggressive batting, coupled with Salman Ali Agha’s powerful strokes, propelled United towards victory.

United’s pursuit of the target saw them score 50 runs in the powerplay, setting a solid foundation for the innings. Shadab Khan’s explosive innings included six fours and five sixes, while Salman Ali Agha’s quickfire knock featured seven fours and three sixes. The duo’s remarkable partnership ensured United’s victory with 10 balls to spare, as Shadab Khan sealed the win with a decisive six over long-on.

Earlier, Lahore Qalandars posted a formidable total of 195 runs for the loss of five wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Openers Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman provided a brisk start, adding 66 runs in the powerplay. However, it was Rassie van der Dussen’s unbeaten knock of 71 runs off 41 balls that propelled Qalandars to a competitive total. Van der Dussen’s innings, supported by contributions from Abdullah Shafique and Sahibzada Farhan, provided a challenging target for United.

Key Performances:

• Shadab Khan (Islamabad United): Unbeaten knock of 74 runs off 41 balls, including six fours and five sixes, earned him the Player of the Match award.
• Salman Ali Agha (Islamabad United): Scored an impressive 64 not out off 31 balls, featuring seven fours and three sixes, contributing significantly to United’s victory.
• Rassie van der Dussen (Lahore Qalandars): Played a crucial innings of 71 not out off 41 balls, comprising four fours and three sixes, guiding Qalandars to a competitive total.
• Tymal Mills (Islamabad United): Claimed two wickets for 45 runs in his four overs.
• Naseem Shah (Islamabad United): Returned with figures of 1 for 36 in his four overs.
• Shadab Khan (Islamabad United): Bagged a solitary wicket, conceding 24 runs in his four overs.

Summary: In a high-scoring encounter, Islamabad United showcased their batting prowess and chased down the target with ease, courtesy of exceptional performances by Shadab Khan and Salman Ali Agha. Lahore Qalandars put up a valiant effort with the bat, led by Rassie van der Dussen’s impressive innings, but ultimately fell short in defending their total.

Tomorrow’s Fixture: The action continues tomorrow with Quetta Gladiators taking on Peshawar Zalmi at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore (2pm), followed by Multan Sultans facing Karachi Kings at Multan Cricket Stadium (7pm). Cricket enthusiasts can expect another exciting day of intense battles in the HBL PSL 9.