by: TN Sports News Pakistan:
In a thrilling encounter, Quetta Gladiators clinched a nail-biting three-wicket victory against Islamabad United in the eighth match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine. Chasing a target of 145, the Gladiators had to endure a tough battle before crossing the finish line in the 19th over, courtesy of skipper Rilee Rossouw’s unbeaten 34.
The Gladiators’ chase began on a strong note with Jason Roy’s explosive innings of 37 runs off 18 balls, showcasing a remarkable strike rate of 205.55. However, the team faced early setbacks, with Saud Shakeel falling victim to Naseem Shah in the second over and Khawaja Nafay departing after contributing 9 runs off 9 balls.
Despite these setbacks, skipper Rossouw anchored the innings, showing great resilience and composure. Alongside him, Sherfane Rutherford’s 29 off 23 balls proved crucial in steering the Gladiators towards victory. Akeal Hosein added a quickfire 8 off 2 balls, but it was Mohammad Amir’s unbeaten 11 off 6 balls that sealed the win for the Gladiators.
For Islamabad United, Naseem Shah and Shadab Khan claimed two wickets each, while Hunain and Rumman Raees took one apiece.
Earlier in the match, Islamabad United, batting first, managed to post a total of 138/9 in their allotted 20 overs. The team got off to a strong start with Alex Hales scoring two consecutive sixes off Akeal Hosein in the third over. However, Hales’ aggressive start was short-lived as Hosein dismissed him soon after.
Salman Ali Agha and Colin Munro then stabilized the innings with a 40-run partnership before Munro was removed by Abrar Ahmed in the eighth over. Agha top-scored for United with a gritty 33 off 23 balls.
Despite a promising start, United’s middle order collapsed, with Imad Wasim and Jordan Cox trying to rebuild the innings but falling short against the Gladiators’ bowling attack.
In the end, it was Quetta Gladiators’ bowlers, particularly Abrar Ahmed and Mohammad Wasim Jr, who shone with three wickets each, supported by Hosein’s two crucial wickets, ensuring a thrilling victory for their team.
