Peshawar Zalmi scored 185/5 in 20 overs, where as Islamabad United scored 189/5 in 19 overs.
So, finally Islamabad United beat Peshawar Zalmi by 5 wickets
Imad Wasim showcased his prowess for the second consecutive day, this time wielding the bat, to propel Islamabad United into the PSL 2024 final.
Despite a precarious position in the run chase against Peshawar Zalmi, Imad teamed up with Haider Ali to engineer a remarkable turnaround, securing their spot in the title clash against Multan Sultans on Monday (March 18).
Initially, Saim Ayub’s erratic start in the chase, marked by three wides in the opening over, hinted at trouble for Peshawar Zalmi.
However, Ayub redeemed himself by snaring the crucial wicket of Alex Hales.
His second over proved equally effective as he dismantled Agha Salman’s defense.
The departure of Skipper Shadab Khan in just two deliveries left Islamabad reeling at 21/3.
Martin Guptill’s aggressive play briefly lifted Islamabad’s spirits, but Khurram Shahzad’s dismissal of Guptill stalled their momentum just before the powerplay concluded.
At 50/4, Islamabad faced a daunting task chasing 186.
Azam Khan’s brief innings offered little respite.
However, Haider’s explosive batting completely altered the game’s trajectory, swiftly followed by Imad’s acceleration after a slow start.
With 35 runs needed off the final three overs, Imad’s onslaught, coupled with Haider’s aggressive strokes, swung the game decisively in Islamabad’s favor.
Aamer Jamal bore the brunt of their onslaught, conceding crucial runs.
Haider’s impressive fifty, punctuated by consecutive sixes, further solidified Islamabad’s position, paving the way for Imam to seal the victory.
Earlier in the day, Peshawar Zalmi’s strong start, led by Babar Azam and Ayub, hinted at a formidable total.
Despite Naseem Shah breaking the opening stand, Ayub’s explosive batting sustained Peshawar’s momentum.
Only Imad managed to contain the onslaught, as the rest of the Islamabad bowlers struggled to stem the flow of runs.
Though Peshawar appeared poised for a formidable total, key dismissals by Shadab and Naseem stifled their progress.
Tom Kohler-Cadmore and Jamal’s contributions ensured Peshawar’s total crossed 180, but it wasn’t enough to thwart Islamabad’s determined chase.
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