Islamabad claimed their third PSL title.
Following Islamabad United’s victory in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine final against Multan Sultans, captain Shadab Khan celebrated with a touching moment alongside his mother and wife.
Shadab Khan adorned his mother’s neck with the match-winning medal and graciously presented his Player of the Tournament trophy to his wife in a heartwarming gesture.
Islamabad secured their third PSL title, adding to their triumphs in 2016 and 2018, thus cementing their status as the most accomplished team in the tournament’s annals.
“After the match, Shadab expressed that the hallmark of a top team is their ability to triumph even in less than perfect circumstances. He extended his gratitude to the team owners for their unwavering support and backing throughout his journey. Shadab emphasized the significance of hard work and belief in clinching the trophy, highlighting its immense value to the team.”
In a nail-biting finish, the match came down to the wire with Hunain Shah stepping up to the crease with one run needed off the final delivery. With a display of sharp cricketing acumen, the young batsman astutely spotted a gap at point and executed a well-placed shot that raced to the boundary, sealing the victory.
Earlier, Sultans posted 159-9 in their 20 overs after winning the toss and opting to bat.
A 40-ball 57 by Usman Khan and 26 by captain Mohammad Rizwan led the way for Sultans.
However, Sultans lost five wickets for just 13 runs and slipped to 127-9.
Left-arm spinner Imad Wasim starred with figures of 5-23 while Naseem grabbed 3-32.
Iftikhar Ahmed’s rapid 32 not out from 20 balls, featuring three sixes and as many fours, played a pivotal role in Multan’s resurgence. He scored 31 runs in the last two overs, turning the tide of the game in their favor.
United encountered a setback as they faltered from 121-4 to 129-7. However, Wasim kept his composure and guided the lower order, contributing a crucial 19 runs from 17 balls to steer them to victory.
Leading the charge for the victorious team, Martin Guptill posted a half-century off 32 deliveries, including three sixes and four boundaries. Meanwhile, Azam Khan contributed a brisk 30 runs from 22 balls, which comprised a six and four boundaries.
