Islamabad United emerged victorious in the opening match of the ninth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), defeating defending champions Lahore Qalandars by eight wickets on Sunday night at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore.
Opting to bat first, Lahore Qalandars set a challenging target of 196 runs, showcasing a commendable batting performance led by Sahibzada Farhan and Rassie van der Dussen. Farhan’s aggressive half-century in just 29 deliveries laid the foundation, while Fakhar Zaman made a valuable contribution before departing in the seventh over.
Despite Farhan’s departure in the 11th over, Abdullah Shafique and Rassie van der Dussen built a crucial partnership, accelerating Qalandars’ innings. Van der Dussen played a stellar unbeaten knock, scoring 71 off 41 deliveries, featuring four boundaries and three sixes. This aggressive batting display bolstered Lahore’s total in the final overs, setting a formidable target for Islamabad United.
In pursuit of the target, Islamabad United showcased an impressive batting performance, with Shadab Khan leading the way with an unbeaten 74 off 41 balls. Salman provided vital support with a 34-ball 61, and together they formed an unbeaten partnership of 138 runs. Alex Hales also made a noteworthy contribution, scoring a quick 36 off 28 balls.
The match concluded in the 19th over as Islamabad United successfully chased down the target. Despite Lahore Qalandars’ spirited bowling efforts, featuring Tymal Mills who claimed two wickets for 45 runs, the batting prowess of Islamabad United proved too formidable to contain. Shadab Khan and Naseem Shah also contributed with a breakthrough each.
