News by “Sana Ullah”
Kicking off the game with bat in hand, Zalmi’s opening duo of Saim Ayub and Babar once again orchestrated a commanding start, forging a formidable 73-run partnership. The duo’s dominance against the United bowlers was evident as they scored briskly, putting pressure on the opposition. However, their momentum faced a setback when Ayub departed after a promising knock of 38 runs off just 21 deliveries, featuring three boundaries and two sixes, falling victim to Salman Ali Agha’s bowling in the eighth over.”
“Following Ayub’s dismissal, United found renewed vigor, with their captain leading from the front by claiming two crucial wickets in quick succession. Mohammad Haris and Haseebullah Khan’s departure left Zalmi reeling at 80/3 in 8.4 overs, prompting a defensive stance from the former champions. Despite efforts to stabilize their innings, Zalmi suffered further setbacks, losing Paul Walter and Rovman Powell in quick succession, slipping to 124/5 in 14.5 overs.”
“Yet, just when United seemed to be gaining control, Babar Azam launched a relentless counterattack, showcasing his belligerent hitting prowess. The highlight of his sensational onslaught was the 18th over, where he dismantled young Hunain Shah’s bowling, smashing four boundaries and a six. Babar’s onslaught continued as he reached his second PSL century in style, finishing unbeaten on 111 off just 63 deliveries, adorned with 14 boundaries and two sixes. Asif Ali’s cameo at the backend, contributing a quickfire 17 off nine balls, further bolstered Zalmi’s total.”
“Switching to the bowling prowess of Zalmi, spinner Arif Yaqoob emerged as the game-changer, delivering a spectacular performance with a five-wicket haul, the first of PSL 9. His crucial breakthroughs in the penultimate over shifted the momentum back in Zalmi’s favor, thwarting United’s chase. Alongside Yaqoob’s heroics, contributions from Salman Irshad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Luke Wood, and Saim Ayub ensured a collective effort from the Zalmi bowling unit.”
“In a high-scoring thriller that showcased exemplary batting displays and nerve-wracking moments, Zalmi emerged victorious, propelled by Babar’s brilliance with the bat and Arif’s heroics with the ball. The electrifying contest between two powerhouse teams added another chapter to the captivating saga of PSL 9.
