Babar Azam’s unbeaten 111-run knock and a record-breaking five-wicket haul by Arif Yaqoob helped Peshawar Zalmi to a thrilling eight-run victory over Islamabad United in the 13th match of PSL 9.
Zalmi got off to a solid start with openers Babar Azam and Saim Ayub laying a strong foundation with a 73-run opening partnership. Saim contributed a valuable 38 runs in 21 balls before his dismissal, allowing Babar to take center stage. The leading run-scorer of PSL history unleashed his power, particularly in the 18th over, where he smashed four boundaries and a six to reach his 11th T20 century (111 off 63 balls) and steer Zalmi to a competitive total of 202 runs. This is his second PSL hundred and he also equaled Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli, and David Warner’s 95 fifty-plus scores in T20s.
Islamabad United’s chase began shakily, losing early wickets. However, a brilliant partnership between Azam Khan (75 off 30 balls) and Colin Munro (71 off 53 balls) gave full hope to their team. The duo put together a 108-run stand, bringing them within touching distance of victory.
Arif Yaqoob’s Heroics Seal the Deal for Peshawar Zalmi:
Just when Islamabad seemed poised for victory, the tide turned dramatically in Zalmi’s favor. Leg Spinner Arif Yaqoob entered the scene and wrote his name in PSL history by claiming a sensational four wickets in the 19th over. This record-breaking feat (5/27) effectively dismantled Islamabad’s batting order and swung the momentum back in Zalmi’s favor. United lost the last 6 wickets in just 12 balls.
Despite Naseem Shah’s late six in the final over, Islamabad fell short of the target by eight runs, marking Zalmi’s third consecutive victory in PSL 9. This thrilling battle showcased individual brilliance, strategic battles, and a nail-biting finish, solidifying its place as one of the most memorable matches of the season thus far.
