In a thrilling encounter of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Peshawar Zalmi emerged victorious over table-toppers Multan Sultans by a narrow margin of four runs. Despite a blistering 60 off 27 balls from Iftikhar Ahmed, Sultans fell short of their target of 205 runs, handing Zalmi their second win over the league leaders this season.
Zalmi’s chase got off to a strong start with captain Babar Azam and Saim Ayub putting on a 71-run partnership in the powerplay. Azam continued his impressive form, scoring 64 off 40 balls, while Ayub contributed 46 off 22 balls. However, Usama Mir’s three-wicket haul, including the key wicket of Azam, slowed down Zalmi’s progress.
With 58 runs required off the last three overs, Iftikhar and Chris Jordan launched a counterattack, scoring 75 runs off just 28 balls. Jordan remained unbeaten on 30 off 12 balls, but Zalmi ultimately fell short at 200-5.
Earlier, Sultans had posted a competitive total of 204-5, thanks to Azam’s knock and Ayub’s aggressive batting. However, Zalmi’s rookie left-arm spinner Mehran Mumtaz impressed in the powerplay, dismissing Reeza Hendricks in his debut PSL over.
Sultans’ top-order struggled against Zalmi’s bowling, with Mohammad Rizwan and Dawid Malan falling cheaply. Iftikhar and Jordan’s late surge almost pulled off a victory for Sultans, but Zalmi’s pacers held their nerve in the final overs to secure the win.
With this victory, Zalmi moved closer to a place in the final four, while Sultans remained at the top of the table despite their second loss. The match showcased the exciting and unpredictable nature of the PSL, with both teams displaying their fighting spirit and determination.
