The Quetta Gladiators continued their winning streak, dominating Islamabad United in a low-scoring thriller. This victory marks their third consecutive win in the ongoing PSL 9, solidifying their position at the table. Let’s delve into the key moments that led to the Gladiators’ triumph.
Clinical Bowling Performance Restricts United:
Winning the toss and choosing to bowl first, the Gladiators unleashed a bowling attack that kept the United batsmen in check. Mohammad Wasim Jr. and Abrar Ahmed shone brightly, bagging three wickets each and restricting the United to a modest 138 runs. Akeal Hosein chipped in with two dismissals, while Mohammad Hasnain, reaching the 50-wicket milestone in the PSL, took one wicket.
United’s Top Order Falters, Agha Provides Brief Resistance:
The United openers, Alex Hales and Colin Munro, started cautiously before Hales fell victim to Akeal’s fiery pace. Salman Ali Agha, however, took charge, smashing 18 runs off Hasnain’s over and providing a glimmer of hope. However, wickets continued to tumble at regular intervals, with Munro, Shadab Khan, and Azam Khan departing cheaply.
Agha’s Resistance Ends, Cox and Ashraf Salvage Some Pride:
Agha’s dismissal to Abrar in the 12th over was a major setback for United. Imad Wasim also struggled, leaving the team in dire straits. However, Jordan Cox and Faheem Ashraf played valuable cameos towards the end, helping United reach a somewhat respectable total of 138.
Gladiators Chase with Grit, Rossouw Anchors the Victory:
Chasing 139, the Gladiators lost early wickets but found stability in Rilee Rossouw. He played a composed innings, scoring an unbeaten 34 runs and guiding the chase. Sherfane Rutherford provided crucial support with a 29-run knock before Naseem Shah removed him. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Rossouw remained calm, finding valuable partnerships with Akeal Hosein and Mohammad Amir to seal the victory with 10 balls to spare.
Key Highlights of the Match:
- Quetta Gladiators maintain their winning streak with a clinical bowling performance and a composed chase.
- Mohammad Wasim Jr., Abrar Ahmed, and Rilee Rossouw were the standout performers for the Gladiators.
- Islamabad United faced a batting collapse despite brief fightbacks from Agha, Cox, and Ashraf.
This victory strengthens the Gladiators’ position as one of the favorites to win the PSL 9 title. They will be looking to continue their winning momentum in their upcoming matches.
Scores in brief:
Islamabad United 138-9, 20 overs (Agha Salman 33, Alex Hales 21; Abrar Ahmed 3-18, Mohammad Wasim Jnr 3-20)
Quetta Gladiators 139-7, 18.2 overs (Jason Roy 37, Rilee Rossouw 34 not out; Shadab Khan 2-24, Naseem Shah 2-34)
Result: Quetta Gladiators beat Islamabad United by 3 wickets
Player of the match – Rilee Rossouw (Quetta Gladiators)
Tomorrow’s fixture – Multan Sultans vs Peshawar Zalmi at Multan Cricket Stadium (7pm)
