Islamabad United delivered a dominant performance to defeat Rawalpindiz by seven wickets, completing the chase with nearly six overs to spare in their first-ever meeting in the PSL.
The contest was shaped by a clear difference in powerplay returns, with Islamabad gaining early control through an aggressive start led by Sameer Minhas.
Minhas Sets Up Comfortable Chase
Chasing 157, Islamabad raced to 62 for 1 in the powerplay, largely driven by Minhas’ 70 off 36 balls. The young opener continued his strong form after his unbeaten 82 in the previous match, dictating terms from the outset.
He struck boundaries consistently, including a pull shot for six off Mohammad Amir that stood out as one of the key moments of the innings. In the opening stand of 58 with Devon Conway, Minhas contributed 47 runs.
Although he was dismissed at the start of the ninth over, the chase remained firmly in control.
Haider Ali (26* off 16) and Mark Chapman (24* off 7) finished the job with ease, guiding Islamabad to 157 for 3.
Islamabad Bowlers Control Early Phases
Earlier, Islamabad’s bowlers capitalised on helpful conditions following a delayed start due to rain. Richard Gleeson generated movement and removed Yasir Khan and Mohammad Rizwan in the early overs, reducing Rawalpindiz to 15 for 2 after four overs.
Imad Wasim applied further pressure with tight lines from the other end, restricting scoring opportunities.
Rawalpindiz managed only 35 for 2 in the powerplay, putting them on the back foot from the start.
Ghulam Fifty Provides Resistance
Kamran Ghulam offered some resistance with a composed 50 off 36 balls, including three boundaries in the sixth over that helped revive the innings.
However, the middle order struggled to build momentum. Late hitting from Dian Forrester, who struck two sixes and two fours in the final over, pushed the total to 156 for 7.
Rawalpindiz Continue Winless Run
Despite Ghulam’s effort and a late surge, Rawalpindiz fell short against a disciplined Islamabad side. The result leaves them with three losses from three matches, while Islamabad United continue to build momentum.
