Islamabad United continued their strong run in the PSL, climbing to second place with a fourth win in five matches after defeating Karachi Kings by eight wickets. The result marked a third straight loss for Moeen Ali’s side, highlighting contrasting trajectories for the two teams.
United Restrict Kings to 150
A disciplined all-round effort from Islamabad ensured Karachi never gained sustained momentum after being put in to bat. Despite a few promising moments, Kings were limited to 150/6, a total that proved insufficient against United’s aggressive approach.
Jason Roy provided early impetus, recovering from a slow start to play some attacking shots, including a notable six over cover off Mohammad Hasnain. At the other end, Reeza Hendricks anchored the innings with an unbeaten 51 off 44 balls, though his knock lacked fluency.
Shadab Khan’s legspin proved decisive in the middle overs. He dismissed Roy after drawing him into a mistimed shot, and soon after accounted for Salman Agha, shifting the momentum firmly in United’s favour.
A brief partnership between Hendricks and Azam Khan attempted to revive the innings, but United maintained control through tight bowling and sharp fielding, including a relay catch involving Sameer Minhas and Mark Chapman. The final five overs yielded only 30 runs, leaving Karachi short of a competitive total.
Minhas and Conway Set Up Comfortable Chase
Chasing 151, Islamabad’s openers Sameer Minhas and Devon Conway took control early. They added 93 runs for the first wicket, with both batters scoring half-centuries to break the back of the chase.
Minhas was particularly aggressive, scoring 58 off 36 balls, taking on multiple bowlers and dominating the powerplay. Conway complemented him with a steady 53, ensuring the chase remained on track.
After Minhas’ dismissal, Shadab Khan provided the finishing touches with an unbeaten 31, striking freely and accelerating towards the target. A six off Adam Zampa signalled his intent, and further attacking strokes ensured there were no late hiccups.
Conway brought up his fifty in the closing stages as Islamabad reached 153/2 with four overs remaining, sealing their win.
Islamabad United’s strong form continues to build momentum as the tournament progresses, while Karachi Kings face mounting pressure after another defeat.
Brief Scores:
- Karachi Kings: 150/6 (20 overs)
- Reeza Hendricks 51*, Jason Roy 39, Azam Khan 34
- Richard Gleeson 2-22, Shadab Khan 2-28
- Islamabad United: 153/2 (16 overs)
- Sameer Minhas 58, Devon Conway 53, Shadab Khan 31*
- Moeen Ali 1-14
