Islamabad United secured the Pakistan Super League title by defeating Multan Sultans with a last-ball boundary in a thrilling final on Monday.
In a tense finale, tailender Hunain Shah stepped up to the plate after the dismissal of Naseem Shah. He expertly guided fast bowler Mohammad Ali’s delivery through point, sealing the victory in a nail-biting encounter.
Multan Sultans were limited to 159-9 on a spin-friendly pitch, courtesy of an impressive bowling display by Islamabad all-rounder Imad Wasim, who claimed 5-23, and captain Shadab Khan, who chipped in with 3-32.
Shadab Khan, named player of the league after scoring 305 runs and taking 14 wickets, remarked, “The mark of a good team is their ability to win even when not playing a perfect game.”
Islamabad’s chase began strongly with opener Martin Guptill’s brisk 30-ball 50 but faced hurdles in the middle overs. However, Wasim’s unbeaten 19 and Naseem’s crucial 17 ensured Islamabad’s victory as they reached 163-8, adding to their titles in 2016 and 2018.
Reflecting on the match, Wasim commented, “To claim a five-for in a final and contribute with the bat during a crucial game was a new experience. We should have wrapped up the game earlier instead of taking it down to the wire. I’m pleased that Hunain finished it off.”
The defeat was heart-wrenching for Multan Sultans, who had lost last year’s final to Lahore Qalandars by one run. Despite being the favorites in the final after dominating the group stage, Multan Sultans fell short.
Multan skipper Mohammad Rizwan acknowledged Islamabad’s performance, saying, “The match went down to the wire, and you can’t pinpoint any particular flaw. Credit to Imad for his five-for and vital runs. Congratulations to Islamabad. It was an enjoyable match tonight in front of a packed crowd.”
Islamabad United gained momentum in the playoffs, fueled by Wasim’s stellar all-round performance.
Despite the valiant efforts of Multan’s spinners Khushdil Shah and Iftikhar Ahmed, and league-leading wicket-taker Usama Mir, Islamabad emerged victorious with Naseem’s quickfire innings and Wasim’s composed finish.
Earlier, Wasim dismantled Multan’s top order with crucial wickets, including those of Yasir Khan and David Willey, setting the stage for Islamabad’s triumph.
