By Asghar Ali Mubarak
RAWALPINDI: In the 27th match of Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10, Karachi Kings secured a place in the next stage by defeating Peshawar Zalmi by 23 runs at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Chasing a daunting target of 238, Peshawar Zalmi managed 214 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs.
Captain Babar Azam played a sublime innings, scoring 94 off 49 balls, laced with 10 fours and four sixes. Despite his brilliance, Zalmi fell short. Saim Ayub contributed 47, while Tom Kohler-Cadmore added 20. Maaz Sadaqat (19 not out) and Hussain Talat (12 not out) remained unbeaten at the end. For Karachi Kings, Abbas Afridi took two wickets, while Hasan Ali and Mir Hamza claimed one apiece.
Earlier, Karachi Kings posted a formidable total of 237 for 4. David Warner hammered 86 off 50 balls, including 11 fours and two sixes. James Vince supported with 72 from 42 deliveries, striking 11 boundaries and a six. The pair put on a 162-run partnership for the second wicket. Vince was the second to fall, while Khushdil Shah added late fireworks with an unbeaten 43 off just 15 balls. Mohammad Nabi also played a key role, remaining unbeaten on 26 from 10 deliveries.
Luke Wood was the most successful Zalmi bowler, finishing with two wickets. The victory sends Karachi Kings through to the next phase of the tournament. Quetta Gladiators had already become the first team to qualify, having won six of their nine matches so far.
