Karachi Kings continued their impressive run in the Pakistan Super League 2026, securing their third consecutive victory with a five-wicket win over Rawalpindi in a high-scoring encounter at Gaddafi Stadium.
Chasing a formidable target of 198 runs, the 2020 champions reached 198 for 5 with four balls to spare, thanks to commanding half-centuries from captain David Warner and wicketkeeper-batter Azam Khan.
Warner, Azam anchor successful chase
Karachi’s innings got off to a shaky start when Muhammad Waseem was dismissed early in the third over, with 27 runs already on the board. Warner then combined with Salman Ali Agha to stabilize the chase, adding 43 runs for the second wicket. Agha contributed a steady 29 before departing in the ninth over.
The momentum shifted decisively when Azam Khan was promoted up the batting order ahead of Moeen Ali. The move paid off immediately, as Azam and Warner forged a crucial 76-run partnership for the third wicket, keeping Karachi firmly in control during a tense chase.
Warner led from the front with a fluent 50 off 36 balls, striking six fours and a six before being dismissed by Daryl Mitchell in the 16th over. By then, the foundation had been laid.
Azam Khan’s explosive knock seals the deal
Azam Khan took charge after Warner’s departure, launching a ferocious counterattack that swung the match decisively in Karachi’s favour. The powerful right-hander top-scored with a blistering 74 off just 34 balls, smashing six fours and six sixes in a crowd-pleasing innings.
Although Mohammad Amir dismissed Azam in the penultimate over, Karachi remained within touching distance of victory. There was brief late drama when Mitchell struck on the first ball of the final over to remove Moeen Ali for five.
However, Abbas Afridi ended the contest in emphatic fashion, launching a six off the very next delivery to seal the win.
Rawalpindi bowlers, batters fight hard
For Rawalpindi, Daryl Mitchell was the standout bowler, finishing with impressive figures of 3 for 32 in 3.2 overs. Naseem Shah and Mohammad Amir picked up one wicket each but struggled to contain the flow of runs in the death overs.
Earlier, Rawalpindi posted a competitive 197 for 6 after being sent in to bat. Karachi’s decision to bowl first initially appeared questionable as Rawalpindi’s batters capitalised on a good surface.
Hasan Ali shines with the ball
Hasan Ali was Karachi’s most effective bowler, claiming 3 wickets for 24 runs in his four overs. Khushdil Shah supported him with two wickets, while Mir Hamza chipped in with one.
Kings gain momentum in PSL 11
With this victory, Karachi Kings have strengthened their position in the PSL 11 points table and built strong momentum early in the tournament. Rawalpindi, meanwhile, will look to regroup quickly as the competition intensifies.
The thrilling contest further underlined the high-scoring nature and competitive balance of this PSL season, delighting fans at the packed Gaddafi Stadium.
