Peshawar Zalmi secure commanding win over Karachi Kings

Chasing target of 247, Karachi Kings were bowled out for just 87 runs in 16.1 overs.

KARACHI: Peshawar Zalmi delivered a dominant all-round performance to defeat Karachi Kings by a massive 159 runs in the 17th match of the Pakistan Super League Season 11 at the National Bank Stadium.

Chasing a daunting target of 247, Karachi Kings were bowled out for just 87 runs in 16.1 overs. Openers David Warner and Mohammad Wasim were dismissed without scoring, putting the team under immediate pressure.

Azam Khan top-scored with 25 runs, while Saad Baig (14) and Khushdil Shah (10) offered limited resistance.

For Peshawar Zalmi, Iftikhar Ahmed, Sufiyan Muqeem, and Naveed Rana starred with the ball, taking three wickets each.

Earlier, Zalmi posted a formidable 246/3 in their allotted 20 overs. Kusal Mendis smashed a brilliant 109 off 52 balls, including 14 fours and 4 sixes, while Babar Azam remained unbeaten on 87 runs. Abdul Samad provided a late surge with a quickfire 40 off 12 balls.

Babar Azam and Kusal Mendis also set a new record for the highest partnership in PSL history, adding 191 runs for the second wicket.

For Karachi Kings, Abbas Afridi took two wickets, while Khushdil Shah claimed one.

Earlier, Karachi captain David Warner had won the toss and opted to field first. Despite expectations of a slow pitch, Zalmi’s batters dominated throughout to secure a comprehensive victory.