Multan clinch thrilling win over Islamabad in PSL-9 showdown

 

Multan clinch thrilling win over Islamabad in PSL-9 showdown

Asher Butt

MULTAN: Multan Sultans displayed exceptional resilience to secure a nail-biting five-wicket win over Islamabad United in a riveting encounter at Multan Stadium during the fifth match of the Pakistan Super League 2024.

 

In a low-scoring affair, Islamabad United faced initial struggles with the bat, managing to post a total of 144. However, the Islamabad bowlers rallied valiantly, putting up a tight defence against Multan Sultan's chase. The match went down to the wire, providing fans with an edge-of-the-seat thriller.

 

Mohammad Rizwan's responsible innings of 32 runs in 33 balls and Reeza Hendricks' fighting knock of 58 off 46 balls anchored Multan Sultans' pursuit of the modest target. The duo contributed significantly, forming a crucial partnership of 71 runs for the second wicket. Despite a resilient fight from Islamabad United, the match swung in Multan Sultans' favor as they managed to score the required 145 runs for the loss of five wickets with just one ball to spare.

 

Tymal Mills provided a vital breakthrough for Islamabad United by dismissing Hendricks, injecting a moment of tension into the proceedings. The dismissals of Yasir Khan (8) and Khushdil Shah (3) raised hopes for Islamabad, but Iftikhar Ahmed (18) and David Willey (7) secured the remaining runs, guiding Multan Sultans to victory in a tense finish.

 

Naseem Shah, Imad Wasim, Mills, and Shadab Khan contributed with the ball for Islamabad United, snaring crucial wickets. Agha Salman and Jordan Cox emerged as the lone stars with the bat for Islamabad United, providing stability amid Multan's disciplined bowling attack.

 

Mohammad Ali and Abbas Afridi's relentless bowling showcased Multan Sultans' collective strength, ensuring Islamabad United struggled to score freely. The victory for Multan Sultans in this gripping encounter will undoubtedly boost their confidence as they progress in the PSL 2024 campaign.

 

As Multan Sultans celebrate their hard-fought win, Islamabad United will reflect on their performance, addressing the challenges ahead to bounce back in the upcoming matches of the tournament.