In an exciting Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 9 clash, Quetta Gladiators secured a nail-biting three-wicket win over Islamabad United in the eighth match. Chasing 145 runs, the Gladiators reached the target in the 19th over, thanks to skipper Rilee Rossouw’s unbeaten 34.
Gladiators’ Chase Fueled by Strong Starts and Key Partnerships
The chase began explosively with Jason Roy scoring 37 runs off just 18 balls, boasting a striking rate of 205.55. Despite early wickets, with Saud Shakeel dismissed by Naseem Shah in the second over and Khawaja Nafay falling after 9 runs, the Gladiators remained focused.
Captain Rilee Rossouw anchored the innings calmly. Alongside him, Sherfane Rutherford contributed a crucial 29 off 23 balls, steering the team towards victory. Quick finishes from Akeal Hosein (8 off 2 balls) and an unbeaten Mohammad Amir (11 off 6 balls) sealed the thrilling win.
Islamabad United’s Batting Effort
Batting first, Islamabad United posted 138/9 in their 20 overs. They started well with Alex Hales hitting two sixes off Akeal Hosein in the third over. However, Hosein soon dismissed Hales.
A solid 40-run partnership between Salman Ali Agha and Colin Munro stabilized the innings. Munro was later caught by Abrar Ahmed in the eighth over. Agha top-scored with a resilient 33 off 23 balls.
Islamabad’s middle order collapsed under pressure. Imad Wasim and Jordan Cox tried to rebuild but couldn’t withstand the Gladiators’ disciplined bowling.
Gladiators’ Bowling Excellence Seals Victory
The Gladiators’ bowlers were impressive. Abrar Ahmed and Mohammad Wasim Jr. each took three wickets. Akeal Hosein added two crucial wickets, putting immense pressure on Islamabad’s batting lineup.
