By Himadullah Sohoo 
Peshawar Zalmi secured their third consecutive win in the ninth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) with a narrow eight-run victory over Islamabad United at the Gaddafi Stadium on Monday night. The match was a thrilling spectacle, featuring a magnificent century from Babar Azam and a match-winning five-wicket haul by Arif Yaqoob.
Babar’s Ton Powers Zalmi to Imposing Total:
Opting to bat first, Zalmi openers Babar Azam and Saim Ayub laid a solid foundation with a 65-run opening partnership. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals following the powerplay, Babar remained unfazed, anchoring the innings with a masterful 111-run knock. His knock, studded with 14 boundaries and two sixes, propelled Zalmi to a formidable total of 201 runs for the loss of five wickets in their allotted 20 overs.
Asif Ali and Babar’s Partnership Steals the Show:
A crucial 77-run partnership between Babar and Asif Ali (17* off 9 balls) in the death overs proved instrumental in Zalmi’s strong finish. The duo plundered runs at a rapid pace, adding 59 runs in just 22 balls, effectively taking the game away from United.
Islamabad’s Fightback Falls Short:
Chasing a daunting target of 202, Islamabad United got off to a shaky start, losing their openers early. However, a magnificent partnership between Colin Munro (54) and Azam Khan (75) revived their hopes. The duo stitched together a 108-run stand, bringing United within touching distance of the target.
Arif Yaqoob’s Five-Wicket Haul Turns the Tide:
Just when it seemed like United were on course for victory, leg-spinner Arif Yaqoob produced a game-changing spell. He dismissed four batsmen in a single over, including the in-form Azam Khan, conceding just two runs in the process. This dramatic turn of events effectively sealed the win for Zalmi.
Arif Creates History:
Yaqoob’s phenomenal bowling performance not only secured victory for Zalmi but also etched his name in PSL history. He became the first spinner to claim a four-wicket haul in a single over and registered the first five-wicket haul of the tournament this season.
Zalmi Maintain Winning Momentum:
With this win, Zalmi consolidated their position at the top of the PSL points table, extending their winning streak to three matches. Their dominant performance showcased their batting prowess, with Babar leading the charge, and their bowling depth, with Yaqoob emerging as the hero of the night.
Scores in brief:
Peshawar Zalmi 201-5, 20 overs (Babar Azam 111 not out, Saim Ayub 38; Shadab Khan 2-28)
Islamabad United 193-9, 20 overs (Azam Khan 75, Colin Munro 71; Arif Yaqoob 5-27)
Result: Peshawar Zalmi beat Islamabad United by eight runs
Player of the match – Babar Azam (Peshawar Zalmi)
Tomorrow’s fixtures: Multan Sultans v Lahore Qalandars at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore (7pm)
Zainab Shafiq