PSL 11: Mendis, Muqeem star as unbeaten Peshawar Zalmi retain top spot

KARACHI: Peshawar Zalmi continued their dominant run in PSL 11, defeating Multan Sultans by 24 runs in a high-scoring clash at National Stadium Karachi.

Batting first, Zalmi posted an impressive 196-6 in their 20 overs, setting a competitive 197-run target. The total was powered by a brilliant knock from Kusal Mendis, who smashed 68 off 40 balls. The innings got off to a flying start with Mohammad Haris blazing 40 off just 17 balls, while skipper Babar Azam added 18 off 20 before early setbacks slowed the momentum.

Mendis then anchored and accelerated the innings with key partnerships in the middle overs. Farhan Yousaf contributed a steady 30 off 22, while late cameos from Iftikhar Ahmed helped push the total close to the 200-mark.

For Multan, Peter Siddle and Mohammad Ismail claimed two wickets each, while Mohammad Nawaz and Mohammad Wasim Jr chipped in with one apiece.

In response, Multan Sultans struggled to keep up with the required rate despite contributions from Shan Masood (35 off 19), Josh Philippe (32 off 17), and Steve Smith (31 off 29). They eventually finished on 172/8 in their 20 overs.

The standout performance with the ball came from Sufiyan Muqeem, who picked up 3 wickets for 30 runs, playing a key role in restricting the Sultans. He was supported by Nahid Rana and Iftikhar Ahmed, who chipped in with crucial breakthroughs.

Earlier, Multan Sultans had opted to field first, a decision that ultimately backfired as Zalmi capitalised with a strong batting display. Historically, the rivalry between the two sides has been closely contested, with Multan holding the edge with 11 wins compared to Zalmi’s seven prior to this encounter.

With this victory, Peshawar Zalmi remain unbeaten in the tournament and retain their spot at the top of the PSL 11 points table, continuing their strong push in the competition.

Peshawar Zalmi

Skipper Babar Azam, Kusal Mendis (wk), Mohammad Haris, , Farhan Yousaf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Michael Bracewell, Abdul Samad, Aamer Jamal, Shoriful Islam, Sufiyan Muqeem and Nahid Rana.

Multan Sultans

Steve Smith, Sahibzada Farhan, Captain Ashton Turner, Shan Masood, Muhammad Nawaz, Josh Philippe (wk), Peter Siddle, Arafat Minhas, Muhammad Ismail, Muhammad Waseem Jnr and Faisal Akram.