Peshawar Zalmi claimed a resounding 70-run triumph over Islamabad United in the Qualifier at Karachi’s National Stadium, catapulting them into the 2026 Pakistan Super League (PSL 11) final. Following their decision to bat first, Zalmi amassed a substantial 221/7 in their allotted 20 overs. Babar Azam spearheaded the charge with an impressive 103 from 59 deliveries, including 12 fours and four sixes, to notch his fourth PSL century. The opening partnership between Babar and Mohammad Haris proved pivotal, yielding 72 runs before Haris departed in the seventh over, having contributed 35 from just 16 balls. Babar then formed a crucial alliance with Kusal Mendis, who scored 41 from 26 deliveries, keeping the pressure firmly on Islamabad’s bowlers. Although United managed to momentarily regain control in the middle overs, with Shadab Khan dismissing Bracewell and Abdul Samad in the same over after Mendis’s departure, Babar remained steadfast, securing his century in the 18th over and ensuring Zalmi’s total remained on course for a massive score. Aaron Hardie provided late impetus with a brisk 20 off 10 deliveries. In response, Islamabad United started strongly, with Devon Conway and Sameer Minhas sharing a 58-run opening stand. Minhas top-scored with 44 from 23 deliveries, while Mohsin Riaz contributed 25. However, as the initial momentum dissipated, United’s chase rapidly unraveled. Hardie struck crucial blows in the middle overs, while Sufiyan Muqeem and Mohammad Basit tightened their grip as wickets fell in clusters. United were eventually dismissed for 151 in 18.4 overs, with Hardie returning figures of 3/24. Muqeem and Basit claimed two wickets each, while Michael Bracewell and Khurram Shahzad chipped in with one apiece. The victory propels Zalmi directly into the PSL 11 final, while Islamabad United will now have another opportunity to reach the title clash when they face the winner of Eliminator 1 in Lahore on May 1.
Related posts:
PSL 11 All-Rounder Opens Up on Career Milestones and Team Dynamics
RawalPindiz Bolster Pace Attack with Kiwi Pacer Ben Sears Amid Naseem Shah Injury
PSL History Made as Sufiyan Muqeem Sets Unprecedented Mark
RawalPindiz Star Hails PSL as a Unique and Competitive Tournament
PSL 11 Power Rankings: Week 4 Unfolds High-Scoring Thrills and Dominant Spells
Peshawar Zalmi Secures International Talent for PSL 11
Skardu.pk is one of the leading authentic news and information platform focusing on adventure tourism, regional and world affairs.