By our correspondent
MULTAN: Peshawar Zalmi handed Multan Sultans a comprehensive seven-wicket defeat in the 25th match of Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10, played at the Multan Cricket Stadium, as they chased down a modest target of 109 with ease. Zalmi’s dominant run chase was a statement of intent, reaching their target in just 13 overs, with a commanding 42 balls to spare.
The chase was anchored by a solid knock of 49 runs from Saim Ayub, who fell just short of a half-century. He was supported by Max Bryant, who remained unbeaten on 38, alongside Mohammad Haris, who chipped in with 7. The performance was a stark contrast to the expectations set by some of Zalmi’s key players, as captain Babar Azam could only muster 8 runs and Mitchell Owen was dismissed cheaply for just 1. However, the batting depth ensured the chase was completed without any further hiccups.
On the bowling front, Shahid Aziz was the only bright spot for Multan, claiming two wickets, but his efforts were not enough to stem the tide as Zalmi cruised to victory.
Earlier in the day, Multan Sultans, after winning the toss, chose to bat first but were left to rue their decision as they were bundled out for a paltry 108 runs in 19.1 overs. Their batting line-up crumbled under pressure, with Tayyab Tahir top-scoring with just 22 runs. Mohammad Rizwan and Shai Hope both contributed 17 runs each, but no batter could anchor the innings as wickets fell in quick succession.
Zalmi’s bowlers executed their plans with precision. Ahmad Daniyal was the standout performer with three wickets, while Muaz Sadaqat and Luke Wood picked up two each. Ali Raza, Saim Ayub, and Alzarri Joseph chipped in with one wicket apiece, as they kept the Sultans under constant pressure.
This loss marked Multan Sultans’ eighth defeat of the tournament, further plunging their campaign into disarray and leaving their playoff hopes in tatters. For Zalmi, the win was a crucial boost, bringing them up to 8 points from 8 matches. They now face two must-win fixtures against Karachi Kings and Lahore Qalandars on May 8 and 9. With their playoff hopes on the line, Zalmi cannot afford to slip up in these remaining games—anything less than two victories could end their PSL 10 journey.
