In a thrilling encounter at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi, Islamabad United emerged victorious against Quetta Gladiators by 39 runs in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 9, securing their spot in the virtual semi-final alongside Peshawar Zalmi. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Islamabad United put up a formidable total on the board.
Opening with Martin Guptill and Alex Hales, Islamabad got off to a strong start against Quetta’s Mohammad Amir. Guptill’s aggressive batting, including three consecutive boundaries in the second over, set the tone for United’s innings. Hales, too, contributed with some powerful hitting, striking two sixes off leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed in the fifth over.
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However, Quetta Gladiators managed to break the partnership as Akeal Hosein dismissed Hales in the sixth over. Despite the setback, Islamabad continued to score briskly, with contributions from Agha Salman, Shadab Khan, and Guptill, who reached his half-century in the 16th over.
Azam Khan provided some late fireworks before being bowled by Hosein. Quetta’s bowlers, led by Amir and Hosein, put up a commendable effort to restrict Islamabad to 174/9 at the end of their innings.
In response, Quetta Gladiators faltered early in their chase, losing wickets at regular intervals. Islamabad’s Imad Wasim wreaked havoc with the ball, picking up three crucial wickets in his four overs. Quetta struggled to build partnerships, with only Omair bin Yousuf offering some resistance with a valiant half-century.
However, Quetta’s chase eventually fizzled out as they were bowled out for 135, falling short of Islamabad’s total. Imad Wasim’s stellar bowling performance earned him the Player of the Match award, highlighting his impact on the game.
With this victory, Islamabad United booked their place in the Eliminator #2, scheduled to take place on March 16, while Quetta Gladiators bowed out of the tournament.
