Iftikhar’s batting leads Multan Sultans to victory against Lahore Qalandars.
In a riveting showdown at the Multan Cricket Stadium, Mohammad Rizwan’s calculated innings and Iftikhar Ahmed’s explosive batting display in the latter overs propelled Multan Sultans to a gripping victory over Lahore Qalandars in the seventh match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine.
Rizwan’s masterful knock of 82 runs off 59 balls provided the backbone of Multan’s chase, showcasing a blend of resilience and finesse.
Despite facing early setbacks with the dismissals of Dawid Malan and Reeza Hendricks, Rizwan orchestrated crucial partnerships, notably a resilient 75-run stand alongside David Willey.
However, it was Iftikhar Ahmed’s blazing cameo towards the end that turned the tide decisively in Multan’s favor.
Ahmed’s blistering 34 off just 11 deliveries, punctuated by five boundaries and two sixes, ensured Multan’s successful pursuit of the 167-run target within 19 overs.
The triumph marks Multan Sultans’ third win in the tournament, consolidating their position as formidable contenders, while Lahore Qalandars, despite a valiant effort, suffered their third defeat of the season.
Earlier in the match, Lahore Qalandars had posted a competitive total, overcoming a shaky start to mount a challenging score on the board.
Despite the early dismissal of opener Sahibzada Farhan, Rassie van der Dussen and Fakhar Zaman orchestrated a remarkable recovery, stitching together a crucial 94-run partnership for the second wicket.
Van der Dussen’s gritty innings of 54 off 37 deliveries, complemented by Fakhar Zaman’s resilient 41 off 36 balls, laid the foundation for Lahore’s formidable total.
Contributions from Sikandar Raza, Jahandad Khan, and Carlos Brathwaite further bolstered Lahore’s innings, ensuring a competitive contest.
In the bowling department, Mohammad Ali spearheaded Multan Sultans’ attack, claiming two pivotal wickets, with valuable support from Abbas Afridi and Usama Mir, who chipped in with a wicket each.
As Iftikhar’s batting leads Multan Sultans to victory against Lahore Qalandars, the pulsating encounter between Multan Sultans and Lahore Qalandars underscored the electrifying spirit of the PSL season nine, captivating cricket enthusiasts with its thrilling twists and turns.
