Shafaqna Pakistan: Islamabad United secured a convincing win over Rawalpindiz in the 12th match of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 at Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday, successfully chasing a target of 157 after restricting the newcomers to 156/7 with a disciplined bowling performance.
The defeat marked Rawalpindiz’s third straight loss in their debut PSL season, while Islamabad United continued to build momentum following their previous victory.
After being put in to bat by Islamabad captain Shadab Khan, Rawalpindiz struggled early on. Richard Gleeson struck twice in the opening overs, removing Yasir Khan and captain Mohammad Rizwan, leaving the side under pressure at 15/2.
Kamran Ghulam then anchored the recovery with a steady innings, forming a 51-run partnership with Daryl Mitchell for the third wicket. Mitchell scored 19 off 15 balls before his dismissal, while Ghulam registered his third PSL half-century, reaching the milestone in 37 deliveries with a six off Shadab.
However, his innings was cut short soon after, as Faheem Ashraf had him caught behind for a 39-ball 50, which included six fours and two sixes. His dismissal triggered another slowdown, with RawalPindiz losing wickets at regular intervals during the middle overs.
Despite the setbacks, Abdullah Fazal added a useful 23, while Dian Forrester provided late impetus with an unbeaten 44, lifting the total to 156/7 in 20 overs. Extras contributed an additional six runs.
Islamabad United’s bowling unit delivered a collective effort, with Salman Irshad, Gleeson and Faheem Ashraf claiming two wickets each, while Imad Wasim chipped in with one, keeping the scoring rate in check throughout the innings.
In response, Islamabad United approached the chase with control and composure, successfully overhauling the 157-run target in 14.2 overs with seven wickets in hand.
The batting unit executed the chase efficiently, maintaining a strong scoring rate while minimising risks against a RawalPindiz attack that struggled to contain the flow of runs.
RawalPindiz’s bowlers found limited success, with Mohammad Amir, Jalat Khan and Rishad Hossain picking up a wicket each, but the target proved insufficient to mount serious pressure on the three-time champions.
The fall of wickets at 58, 92 and 112 did little to derail Islamabad United’s progress, as the chase remained firmly under control throughout.
With this result, Islamabad United continue to strengthen their position in the PSL 11 standings, while RawalPindiz remain in search of their first victory in the tournament.
Source: Dunya News
