Babar Azam Score 64 runs help Zalmi to win the match against Sultans | © PSL (PCB)
On the evening of March 5th, 2024, cricket enthusiasts witnessed an electrifying showdown at Pindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi, where Peshawar Zalmi secured a heart-pounding four-run victory against the high-flying Multan Sultans, who were leading the table. This nail-biting encounter showcased the brilliance of Babar Azam, guiding Zalmi to their second triumph over the Sultans in the ninth edition of the HBL PSL.
Peshawar Zalmi Innings – Dominant Start and Babar Azam’s Brilliance
Opting to bat first, Peshawar Zalmi asserted their dominance by posting an imposing total of 204-5. The opening pair of Saim Ayub and Babar Azam laid the groundwork with a spectacular 84-run partnership, showcasing their prowess during the powerplay by amassing an impressive 71 runs, the highest in this season of HBL PSL. Despite the early losses of Saim and Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Babar Azam exhibited a masterclass, crafting a superb 64 off 40 balls. Usama Mir emerged as Multan Sultans’ leading wicket-taker, claiming three crucial scalps, while the late contributions from Rovman Powell and Aamir Jamal propelled Zalmi to a formidable total.
Multan Sultans Innings – Determination, Wickets, and the Almost Comeback
In response, Multan Sultans exhibited unwavering determination but fell short, concluding their innings at 200-5. The opening duo of Mohammad Rizwan and Tayyab Tahir provided a solid start, yet Mehran Mumtaz, making his HBL PSL debut, struck early, disrupting the opening partnership. Aamir Jamal intensified the pressure with a double-wicket over, dismissing Dawid Malan and Tayyab. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, the explosive partnership between Iftikhar Ahmed and Chris Jordan, amassing 75 runs off 28 balls, brought the Sultans tantalizingly close to the target. However, Peshawar Zalmi showcased resilience, maintaining composure in crucial moments, ultimately securing a four-run victory.
Key Performances – Stars of the Match
Babar Azam: Acknowledged as the Player of the Match, Babar Azam’s exceptional innings of 64 runs played a pivotal role in establishing Peshawar Zalmi’s solid foundation.
Usama Mir: Standing out as Multan Sultans’ standout performer, Usama Mir demonstrated his prowess by claiming three crucial wickets.
Iftikhar Ahmed and Chris Jordan: The explosive partnership between Iftikhar Ahmed and Chris Jordan nearly propelled Multan Sultans to a remarkable comeback, showcasing their resilience and determination.
Result – Thrilling Victory for Peshawar Zalmi
In a riveting encounter filled with remarkable performances and intense moments, Peshawar Zalmi emerged victorious, securing a vital four-run win against Multan Sultans. This match will undoubtedly be etched in fans’ memories as one of the standout moments in the captivating HBL PSL 9.
