Multan Sultans have etched their name as the first team to secure a spot in the playoffs of HBL PSL 9 following a resounding victory against Karachi Kings at National Bank Stadium, Karachi on Sunday night. With a commanding total of 189-3 in the first innings, Multan restricted Karachi to 169-7, clinching the match by a margin of 20 runs.
The clash commenced with Karachi Kings opting to field first after winning the toss, where Blessing Muzarabani of Karachi Kings made an early breakthrough by dismissing Reeza Hendricks (13, 8b, 3x4s) in the second over, caught by Mir Hamza.
However, Mohammad Rizwan and Usman Khan orchestrated a formidable second-wicket partnership, amassing a staggering 148 runs and steering Multan to a comfortable position.
Usman Khan, joining Rizwan in the second over, launched a relentless assault on the Karachi Kings’ bowlers, notably Muzarabani and Mohammad Nawaz during the powerplay, propelling Multan past the 50-run mark within six overs.
During the final five overs of the innings, Multan added 51 runs to their tally, with Rizwan achieving his 63rd T20 half-century amidst the onslaught.
Although Muzarabani dismissed Rizwan (58, 44b, 5x4s) in the 18th over, Usman Khan continued his onslaught, eventually securing his second HBL PSL career century with a spectacular unbeaten 106 off 59 deliveries, comprising an impressive array of 10 boundaries and five maximums, earning him the well-deserved title of Player of the Match.
In response, Karachi Kings faced early setbacks with Tim Seifert (1, 4b) getting run out in the second over while chasing a formidable target of 190.
Despite Shan Masood and Shoaib Malik’s valiant efforts, Karachi Kings struggled to keep pace with the required run rate, eventually falling short with a total of 169-7 in their allotted 20 overs.
Usama Mir emerged as a key performer for Multan Sultans with two crucial wickets, complemented by Ali, Khushdil, Willey, and Jordan, who each contributed with a dismissal.
In summary:
Multan Sultans beat Karachi Kings by 20 runs
Multan Sultans 189-3, 20 overs (Usman Khan 106 not out, Mohammad Rizwan 58; Blessing Muzarabani 2-32)
Karachi Kings 169-7, 20 overs (Shoaib Malik 38, Shan Masood 36, Mohammad Nawaz 27 not out; Usama Mir 2-29)
Player of the match – Usman Khan (Multan Sultans)
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