In a nail-biting finish, Peshawar Zalmi edged past Multan Sultans by five runs in the ninth match of the PSL 2024, played at the Multan Cricket Stadium on Friday night. This victory marks Zalmi’s first win of the season, while Sultans suffer their first defeat after registering three consecutive wins.
Luke Wood Shines with Bat and Ball
Luke Wood emerged as the hero for Zalmi, playing a crucial role with both bat and ball. He drew first blood by dismissing Multan’s skipper Mohammad Rizwan for a duck, setting the tone for a tight contest. Later, with the bat, Wood’s unbeaten 17 runs off 12 balls provided valuable late-innings impetus for Zalmi.
Sultans’ Chase Falters despite Malan’s Heroics
Chasing a modest target of 180 runs, Sultans’ chase began poorly with the early dismissal of Rizwan. However, Yasir Khan and Reeza Hendricks steadied the ship with a 45-run partnership. Dawid Malan then took center stage, contributing a brisk 52 runs off just 25 balls.
Drama Unfolds in the Death Overs
With Sultans needing 50 runs off the final four overs, the drama intensified. Debutant Arif Yaqoob picked up two crucial wickets in his final over, dismissing Khushdil Shah and David Willey. Usama Mir briefly reignited Sultans’ hopes with two sixes but was caught soon after.
Zalmi Holds Nerve in Tense Finish
In the penultimate over, Wood restricted the flow of runs and dismissed Abbas Afridi. Sultans required 22 runs off the last over with Iftikhar Ahmed on strike. Despite his valiant effort, Iftikhar fell on the penultimate delivery, leaving six runs needed for victory. The final ball saw Shahnawaz Dahani dismissed by Naveen-ul-Haq, handing Zalmi a narrow win.
Babar Azam and Haseebullah Khan Lead Zalmi’s Batting Charge
Earlier, Zalmi skipper Babar Azam opted to bat first. After a cautious start, Babar and Haseebullah Khan stitched together a crucial 46-run partnership. However, both fell prey to Usama Mir’s accurate bowling.
Cameos from Powell and Wood Propel Zalmi to a Competitive Total
Following the dismissals of Babar and Haseebullah, Rovman Powell and Paul Walter provided valuable cameos, keeping the scoreboard ticking. Wood’s unbeaten knock in the death overs ensured Zalmi posted a defendable total of 179 runs on the board.
Multan’s Bowling Attack Shares Spoils
For Sultans, David Willey, Usama Mir, and Ihsanullah picked up two wickets each, while Shahnawaz Dahani and Abbas Afridi chipped in with one wicket apiece.
Zalmi’s Gritty Performance Earns Crucial Points
This victory is a significant boost for Zalmi, who were winless going into this match. They displayed commendable grit and determination, particularly in the bowling department, to secure a thrilling win against a formidable Multan Sultans outfit. The encounter showcased the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket and kept fans on the edge of their seats till the very last delivery.
Scores in brief Peshawar Zalmi vs Multan Sultans:
Peshawar Zalmi 179-8, 20 overs (Haseebullah Khan 37, Babar Azam 31; Mohammad Ali 2-23, David Willey 2-28, Usama Mir 2-36)
Multan Sultans 174 all out, 20 overs (Dawid Malan 52, Yasir Khan 43; Arif Yaqoob 3-43, Luke Wood 2-13, Salman Irshad 2-39, Naveen-ul-Haq 2-44)
Result: Peshawar Zalmi beat Multan Sultans by five runs
Player of the match – Luke Wood (Peshawar Zalmi)
Tomorrow’s fixture: Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore (7 pm)
