In Match 5 of HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10, Islamabad United put up a dominant performance with the bat, posting a formidable total of 243/5 in their 20 overs against Peshawar Zalmi at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. After winning the toss and opting to bat first, United’s opener Sahibzada Farhan stole the show with a sensational knock of 106 runs off just 52 balls, including 9 fours and 6 sixes at a blistering strike rate of 203.84. He was well-supported by Colin Munro, who smashed 40 off 27 balls, and Salman Agha, who played a quick-fire cameo of 30 off 15.
Lower down the order, Jason Holder (20* off 11) and Ben Dwarshuis (18* off 6) provided a strong finish, propelling the total well past the 240 mark. Islamabad United hit a total of 18 fours and 12 sixes, reflecting the aggressive intent of their innings.
For Peshawar Zalmi, Alzarri Joseph was the most successful bowler, picking up 2 wickets for 39 runs in his 4 overs, while Mohammad Ali, George Linde, and Saim Ayub chipped in with a wicket each. However, Zalmi’s bowlers struggled to contain the flow of runs, with none managing to keep their economy under 8 runs per over except Linde.
This is the second game for both sides in the tournament. Islamabad United are looking to continue their winning momentum after defeating Lahore Qalandars in their opener, while Peshawar Zalmi are still in search of their first win, having lost to Quetta Gladiators in their opening match. With a daunting chase of 244 runs ahead, Zalmi will need a special effort from their top order to stay in the contest.
