HBL PSL returns in style

RAWALPINDI:

The hustle and bustle of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) returned on Friday to the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium with a high-scoring clash between Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings, culminating in a 23-run victory for the Kings.

The PSL-10 had earlier been brought to a grinding halt after India launched a drone attack outside the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Initially, it was decided to shift the remainder of the tournament to the UAE.

However, following a de-escalation between Pakistan and India, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chose to bring the action back home and complete the event on native soil.

On Friday, the PCB also officially dedicated the ongoing Pakistan Super League to the valiant Armed Forces of Pakistan, acknowledging their unwavering sacrifices and steadfast commitment to safeguarding the nation.

"We proudly dedicate the Pakistan Super League to our brave Armed Forces who continue to safeguard the nation's integrity with courage and commitment," the PCB said in a statement.

According to the PCB, Friday's PSL matches and ceremonies were held in honour of the Pakistan Army, while Saturday would be dedicated to the Pakistan Navy, and Monday to the Pakistan Air Force.

The decision has been widely welcomed by fans and the cricketing fraternity alike, who have lauded the move as a fitting tribute to the armed forces' service and sacrifices for the country.

In the high-scoring encounter, Karachi Kings posted 237 runs, and Peshawar Zalmi, despite a spirited chase, fell short with 214, giving the Kings a 23-run win and securing their spot in the playoffs.

Zalmi's pursuit began with flair, as young Saim Ayub provided early impetus with a fluent 47 off 31 balls, striking five boundaries and a couple of sixes. However, they suffered an early blow when Mohammad Haris was dismissed for 9 by Hasan Ali, caught by James Vince after a brief but explosive cameo.

From there, Captain Babar Azam took control. Combining classical elegance with aggressive intent, he anchored the innings with sublime strokeplay. His 94 off just 49 deliveries, laced with 10 boundaries and 4 sixes, kept Zalmi in the hunt throughout.

He shared crucial partnerships — first with Saim Ayub and later with Tom Kohler-Cadmore — to keep the chase alive.

Despite the solid contributions, Zalmi began to lose momentum in the final overs. Kohler-Cadmore (20 off 15) and Max Bryant (7 off 5) failed to accelerate meaningfully.

With the required run rate climbing steadily, the turning point came in the 18th over when Babar Azam was run out, just six runs short of his century, following a mix-up, thanks to sharp fielding by Aamer Jamal and wicketkeeper Saad Baig.

Babar's dismissal effectively ended Zalmi's resistance, as the remaining batters struggled to maintain the momentum. Peshawar Zalmi eventually managed 214/5 in their 20 overs, falling short by 23 runs.

With this victory, the Karachi Kings sealed their place in the playoffs.

(With additional input from APP)