Mendis Leads Zalmi to Win Over Sultans

Peshawar Zalmi continued their unbeaten run in PSL 2026 with a 24-run victory over Multan Sultans, powered by a commanding knock from Kusal Mendis and a decisive bowling effort in the closing stages.

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Mendis, enjoying a strong run in the tournament, struck 68 off 40 balls to anchor Zalmi’s total of 196 for 6. He was supported by a rapid start from Mohammad Haris, who set the tone early, while contributions from the middle order ensured the innings maintained momentum throughout.

Haris Provides Flying Start

After being put in to bat in match no. 22 between the top two sides, Zalmi made an aggressive start despite an early setback. Babar Azam struggled to find rhythm and was dismissed for 18 off 20 balls, but Haris counterattacked from the outset. He struck two boundaries off the opening deliveries and continued to dominate Mohammad Nawaz, hitting three sixes in a single over. Haris raced to 38 off 17 before departing inside the powerplay.

Mendis Anchors Middle Overs

With the early momentum established, Mendis took charge through the middle overs. After a cautious beginning, he accelerated with a pair of sixes off Arafat Minhas, shifting gears effectively. He then brought up another fifty-plus score, striking Mohammad Wasim for three boundaries in an over.

Mendis also shared a 63-run partnership with Farhan Yousaf, while cameos from Michael Bracewell and Iftikhar Ahmed added valuable runs. These contributions helped Zalmi reach a strong total of 196 for 6.

Sultans Stay in Contest Before Late Collapse

Chasing 197, Multan Sultans kept themselves in the game for much of the innings. Josh Philippe and Steven Smith ensured the required rate remained manageable in the early overs after Iftikhar Ahmed dismissed Sahibzada Farhan for 17 off 10 balls.

However, the innings lacked a stabilising presence similar to Mendis. Regular breakthroughs, including a three-wicket haul from Sufiyan Muqeem, prevented the Sultans from building sustained momentum.

Masood and Turner Threaten

The chase gathered pace through aggressive contributions from captain Ashton Turner and Shan Masood. Masood, in particular, shifted momentum with a 21-run over against Aamer Jamal, briefly putting the Sultans ahead in the contest. He scored 35 off 19 balls, but his dismissal proved a turning point.

Babar Azam’s decision to bring back Iftikhar Ahmed paid off, as Masood miscued a shot to deep cover, ending a key phase of the chase.

Nahid Rana Seals the Game

The final overs saw a standout bowling performance from Nahid Rana. Delivering at high pace, he conceded just eight runs across the 17th and 19th overs while picking up crucial wickets. His spell ensured that the Sultans could not regain momentum.

The last five overs yielded only 26 runs, effectively shutting down the chase. Multan Sultans finished on 172 for 8, falling short despite their earlier resistance.