HBL PSL X: Holder's heroics against Sultans seal 47-run win for United

Jason Holder’s all-round brilliance powered defending champions Islamabad United to a 47-run win over Multan Sultans, securing their third consecutive victory in the tenth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) on Wednesday.

Despite a promising start anchored by skipper Mohammad Rizwan’s brisk 38, Multan struggled to build momentum as regular wickets derailed their chase at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

Rizwan, who struck three fours and a six in his 27-ball stay, provided early stability before falling to Islamabad captain Shadab Khan, caught by Muhammad Shahzad. The Sultans had already lost opener Shai Hope for just 1, with the West Indian caught off Naseem Shah’s bowling in the second over.

Usman Khan looked threatening during his 20-ball 31, but he too departed after a promising start, caught by Meredith off Imad Wasim.

Kamran Ghulam 17 off 13 and Michael Bracewell 16 off 10 chipped in briefly, but neither could convert their starts. The middle order failed to sustain partnerships, with wickets falling in quick succession and Islamabad tightening the screws through disciplined bowling and sharp fielding.

Iftikhar Ahmed offered some resistance with a well-paced 32 off 26 balls, hitting two fours and two sixes, but found little support from the lower order. David Willey, Chris Jordan, and Usama Mir all fell cheaply, as the chase lost momentum.

Jason Holder starred with the ball for United, claiming four wickets for just 25 runs in his four-over spell, including two crucial strikes in the 18th over that effectively sealed the contest.

Imad Wasim provided excellent support, finishing with figures of 2-22, while Muhammad Shahzad and Shadab Khan grabbed a wicket apiece.

Multan were bowled out in 19.4 overs, falling 20 runs short despite their explosive batting lineup.

The loss marked their second defeat of the season, while Islamabad celebrated their third consecutive win, consolidating their position in the top half of the PSL table.

Earlier, batting first, Islamabad United set a target of 202 for 6 in 20 overs after a wet outfield delayed the start by 45 minutes.

Farhan anchored the innings with a 35-ball 53, hitting seven fours and two sixes before being dismissed by Usama Mir. Munro added firepower with a quick 48 off 25 deliveries, including four boundaries and three sixes, before falling to Ubaid Shah.

Andries Gous scored 9 off 10 balls, while captain Shadab Khan contributed 14 from 11. Azam Khan managed only 4 off 8 before both were removed by Chris Jordan.

At 136 for 5, Islamabad’s innings appeared to be slowing, but a late flourish from Haider and Holder turned the momentum. The pair added 47 runs in just three overs. Haider scored 33 off 16 balls, while Holder finished unbeaten on 32 from 14, lifting their side to 202/6.