Islamabad United vs Hyderabad Kingsmen: Mohsin leads side to crush HK in 7th over

KARACHI: Islamabad United registered a dominant eight-wicket victory over Hyderabad Kingsmen in just the seventh over of the chase, in the 36th match of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 at the National Bank Stadium on Friday.

The win, United’s fifth of the season, strengthened their push for the playoffs as the three-time champions joined table-toppers Peshawar Zalmi and 2021 winners Multan Sultans in the qualification race.

Chasing a modest target of 81, Islamabad United made light work of the total, sealing victory with 80 balls to spare after losing only two wickets.

The chase, however, had a brief setback when opener Devon Conway fell for a duck on the second ball of the innings. But Mohsin Riaz and Sameer Minhas quickly took control, launching a strong counterattack that broke the back of the chase early.

Mohsin Riaz was the standout performer, smashing a quickfire 42 off just 18 balls, decorated with six fours and two sixes, as he tore into the Kingsmen bowling attack. His aggressive approach ensured United stayed well ahead of the required rate.

Minhas provided solid support from the other end, remaining unbeaten on 27 off 20 deliveries, including three boundaries and a six. Captain Shadab Khan then finished the match in style, hitting the winning runs with a boundary in the seventh over.

For Hyderabad Kingsmen, Mohammad Ali was the only wicket-taker in an otherwise one-sided contest.

Earlier, Islamabad United’s bowlers had set up the victory by dismantling the Kingsmen for just 80 runs in 15.5 overs. Richard Gleeson, Imad Wasim, and Shadab Khan led the attack with three wickets each, while Salman Mirza added one.

Hyderabad’s innings never recovered after a disastrous start, losing early wickets including Maaz Sadaqat for a golden duck. Despite a lone fight from Usman Khan, who remained unbeaten on 25, the Kingsmen collapsed under pressure and failed to post a competitive total.