The Karachi Kings finally ignited their PSL 9 campaign with a resounding 7-wicket victory against Peshawar Zalmi at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday. The win was powered by a magnificent bowling display, followed by a clinical chase led by the explosive Kieron Pollard.
Zalmi Restricted to 154 by Tight Bowling:
Opting to bowl first, Kings skipper Imad Wasim unleashed his pace attack, and it proved to be a wise decision. Young gun Mir Hamza and veteran Hasan Ali wreaked havoc on Zalmi’s batting order, claiming three wickets each. Shoaib Malik chipped in with an early dismissal, sending Saim Ayub packing for a golden duck.
Babar Azam Smashes Record, But Zalmi Falters:
Despite the early setbacks, Babar Azam shone brightly, becoming the youngest and fastest cricketer to reach 10,000 T20 runs. However, wickets continued to tumble around him, with Mohammad Haris, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, and Rovman Powell failing to capitalize on promising starts. Asif Ali provided a brief flourish with a quickfire 23, but Daniel Sams and Hamza dismissed him and Aamir Jamal cheaply.
Hasan and Hamza Shine, Claiming Player of the Match Honors:
In a dramatic final over, Hasan Ali cleaned up the tail, dismissing Babar Azam for 72 and restricting Zalmi to a modest 154. For his exceptional bowling performance (3 wickets for 28 runs), Hamza was deservedly named Player of the Match.
Kings Chase with Ease, Pollard Steals the Show:
Chasing a manageable target, Kings openers Sharjeel Khan and Muhammad Akhlaq provided a brisk start. However, Luke Wood pegged them back with quick dismissals. The experienced duo of James Vince and Shoaib Malik steadied the ship with a fifty-run partnership, but Waqar Salamkheil shattered their alliance.
Pollard Erupts, Seals Victory for Kings:
Enter Kieron Pollard! The Universe Boss lived up to his name, launching a spectacular unbeaten knock of 49 from just 21 deliveries. His innings was a masterclass in clean hitting, peppered with four boundaries and as many sixes. He completely overshadowed Waqar’s spell, taking 27 runs off his 15th over to virtually seal the win for the Kings.
Vince Finishes the Job, Kings Triumph:
While Pollard stole the show, Vince played a crucial supporting role, anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 38. Together, they saw their team over the line with 19 balls to spare, securing a commanding victory in the tournament.
Karachi Kings make a comeback in PSL 9 With a Bang:
This convincing win sets the tone for Karachi Kings’ campaign in PSL 9. Their disciplined bowling and explosive batting, particularly Pollard’s heroics, bode well for the team’s future. While Peshawar Zalmi will need to regroup and address their batting fragility, the stage is set for an exciting and competitive tournament ahead.
Scores in brief:
Peshawar Zalmi 154 all out, 19.5 overs (Babar Azam 72, Rovman Powell 39; Mir Hamza 3-28, Hasan Ali 3-30, Daniel Sams 2-28)
Karachi Kings 157-3, 16.5 overs (Kieron Pollard 49 not out, James Vince 38 not out;
Result: Karachi Kings beat Peshawar Zalmi by seven wickets
Player of the match – Mir Hamza (Karachi Kings)
Tomorrow’s fixtures: Quetta Gladiators v Islamabad United, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore (7 pm)
