In their first home match of the season at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Islamabad United clashed with Peshawar Zalmi, with Babar Azam winning the toss and opting to bowl first.
Taking the reins of the innings from the start, skipper Shadab Khan delivered one of the finest innings of his career, scoring an impressive 80 runs off 47 balls. Supported by Salman Ali Agha, who contributed a steady 37 runs off 25 balls, the duo built a solid 65-run partnership. Shadab Khan further bolstered the team’s total by setting up a formidable 68-run partnership with Jordan Cox, ultimately enabling Islamabad United to set a mammoth target of 197 runs.
In the bowling department, Saim Ayub emerged as the standout performer, delivering a remarkable spell during the power play. He dismantled the top order by dismissing key batsmen Alex Hales and Colin Munro, crucial blows for Islamabad United.
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Peshawar Zalmi’s innings got off to a dismal start as they lost Babar Azam in the very first over, with Alex Hales gaining some redemption after his earlier duck by dismissing Pakistan’s batting maestro.
Facing a challenging target, Peshawar Zalmi struggled in the power play, losing five wickets in quick succession. The bowling duo of Hunain Shah and Naseem Shah wreaked havoc on the top order with their impressive spell with the new ball.
In a noteworthy achievement, Shadab Khan notched his 300th wicket in T20 cricket, finishing with bowling figures of 3-41 in his allotted four overs.
Despite a valiant effort from Aamer Jamal, who showcased impeccable power hitting with 87 runs off 49 balls, and support from Paul Walter, who contributed 33 runs off 29 deliveries, Peshawar Zalmi fell short of the target.
With both Hunain Shah and Rumman Raees picking up two wickets each, Islamabad United secured an important victory over Peshawar Zalmi by 29 runs. This win propelled Islamabad United to third place in the standings of PSL 9.
Shadab Khan was rightfully awarded the Man of the Match for his outstanding all-round performance.
