Peshawar Zalmi win there first game in HBL PSL Season 9 | © PSL (PCB)
In a cricket showdown that had fans on the edge of their seats, Peshawar Zalmi secured a heart-pounding win against the table-topping Multan Sultans. The match unfolded in a roller-coaster of excitement, with both teams displaying resilience and skill in a battle that went down to the wire.
Peshawar Zalmi, after winning the toss to bat first, posted a competitive total of 179 for 8. The innings saw impactful contributions from Haseebullah Khan, who played a quickfire innings of 37 runs off just 18 balls, and Babar Azam, who added 31 runs. The late surge in the innings, courtesy of Rovman Powell’s 23 off 11 and Luke Wood’s 17 off 12 proved crucial in setting up a challenging target.
Multan Sultans, chasing a target of 180, had a strong start, fueled by the explosive batting of Dawid Malan. Malan’s blistering knock of 52 runs off 25 balls, which included three sixes and three fours, set the tone for an intense run chase. Reeza Hendricks played a steady role with 28 runs off 27 balls, forming a crucial partnership with Malan.
However, the match took a dramatic turn in the 17th over when leg-spinner Arif Yaqoob stepped up for Peshawar Zalmi. Yaqoob’s exceptional bowling performance saw him taking three wickets in a single over, disrupting Multan Sultans’ momentum. Despite Usama Mir’s spirited effort with two successive sixes, Yaqoob’s impact proved decisive in Peshawar’s favor.
As the game reached its climax, Multan Sultans needed 22 runs off the final over. Iftikhar Ahmed, showing nerves of steel, smashed two boundaries and a massive six off Naveen-ul-Haq, bringing the equation down to six runs needed from the last two balls. However, the Afghan fast bowler held his composure, dismissing Iftikhar and securing a dramatic victory for Peshawar Zalmi.
Naveen-ul-Haq’s calmness under pressure and Arif Yaqoob’s three wickets in a crucial over proved to be the turning points. The win not only marked Peshawar Zalmi’s first triumph of the season but also handed Multan Sultans their first home loss in four matches.
This match showcased the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the final ball. As the PSL continues, the excitement and drama promise to keep cricket enthusiasts hooked, eagerly anticipating more moments of brilliance and suspense on the field.
