News by “Sana Ullah”
In a commanding display of both bowling and batting prowess, Islamabad United convincingly defeated Quetta Gladiators in the Eliminator 1 of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 9 at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi.
With a resounding 39-run victory, Quetta Gladiators’ campaign in PSL 9 came to an end, while Islamabad United advanced to the Eliminator 2, where they are set to face off against Peshawar Zalmi.
In pursuit of 175 runs, the Gladiators faced a disastrous beginning, losing half of their side within the batting powerplay with a mere 16 runs on the scoreboard.
Despite Akeal Hosein’s spirited cameo and a vital 52-run partnership with Omair Bin Yousuf, the Gladiators struggled to build momentum. Hosein’s aggressive 31 off 18 deliveries, featuring two boundaries and three sixes, provided some resistance before he fell victim to a run-out.
Yousuf showcased resilience with a fighting half-century, scoring 50 runs off 37 balls, including four boundaries and a six, but his efforts weren’t enough to salvage the innings.
Imad Wasim led the bowling charge for Islamabad United, claiming 3/12 in his four overs, with support from Naseem Shah and others who chipped in with crucial wickets.
Opting to bat first, Islamabad United got off to a flying start, courtesy of their new opening pair, Martin Guptill and Alex Hales, who forged a solid 51-run partnership.
Guptill’s aggressive innings propelled the team forward, while Hales contributed with a quick 23 off 20 balls before being dismissed by Hosein.
Subsequent partnerships, including Salman Ali Agha’s brisk 31 and brief cameos from Shadab Khan and Azam Khan, helped Islamabad United maintain momentum.
However, Quetta Gladiators fought back with timely wickets, triggering a lower-middle-order collapse. Guptill anchored the innings with a composed 56 off 47 deliveries, but the team lost momentum towards the end, losing wickets in quick succession.
Despite some resistance, the Gladiators’ bowling unit, led by Mohammad Amir and Hosein, managed to restrict Islamabad United to a total of 174/9.
With this victory, Islamabad United advances to face Peshawar Zalmi in the Eliminator 2, with the winner earning a spot in the PSL 9 final.
