Skipper David Warner and top-order batter James Vince produced sensational half-centuries to propel Karachi Kings to a commanding total of 237/4 against Peshawar Zalmi in Match 27 of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10, held at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Saturday.
After being put into bat first, the Kings recovered from an early blow—losing debutant Ben McDermott on the first ball of the innings—to dominate the Peshawar bowlers with an explosive 162-run stand for the second wicket between Warner and Vince.
James Vince was dismissed in the 15th over by Ali Raza after a powerful 42-ball 72, featuring 11 boundaries and a six. In the very next over, Luke Wood claimed the wicket of the in-form Irfan Khan for just 2, giving Zalmi hope of a comeback.
However, David Warner continued to anchor the innings until the 17th over, when Arif Yaqoob removed him for a brilliant 86 off 50 balls, laced with 11 fours and 2 sixes.
Despite the quick wickets, Karachi Kings maintained momentum, thanks to a rapid unbeaten 70-run partnership between Khushdil Shah and Mohammad Nabi. Khushdil hammered 43 not out from just 15 balls, while Nabi supported with a quick 26* off 10 deliveries.
Luke Wood stood out with the ball for Peshawar Zalmi, taking 2 wickets for only 19 runs in his four-over spell. Arif Yaqoob and Ali Raza picked up one wicket each.
Karachi Kings now look in a dominant position with a towering target on the board, as Peshawar Zalmi prepare to chase 238 under lights.
