Islamabad United secured their fifth straight victory over Multan Sultans in the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) on April 23, 2025, chasing 171 in just 17.1 overs for a commanding seven-wicket win. Andries Gous’ unbeaten 80 off 45 balls, packed with six fours and five sixes, was the cornerstone of the chase, propelling United to a dominant performance.
Islamabad’s pursuit began aggressively with Sahibzada Farhan’s quick 22 off 13, but Ubaid Shah dismissed him early. Gous then partnered with Colin Munro, forging an 81-run stand, dismantling Multan’s bowling. Munro’s 45 off 28 (five fours, two sixes) complemented Gous’ onslaught until Michael Bracewell claimed his wicket. Mohammad Nawaz added 21 off 19, ensuring United cruised to 171/3 with 17 balls remaining, with Gous anchoring the innings masterfully.
Gous hits unbeaten 80 as United continue red-hot form in HBL PSL X
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— PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) April 23, 2025Batting first after winning the toss, Multan posted 170/5, driven by Usman Khan’s 61 off 40 (four fours, four sixes). Openers Yasir Khan (29 off 17) and Mohammad Rizwan (36 off 37) built a 51-run start, but Nawaz and Shadab Khan struck to slow the momentum. Kamran Ghulam’s late 18 off 9, including a six, lifted the total, but run-outs and tight bowling from Jason Holder and Riley Meredith restricted Multan’s surge.
Key Performers
- Andries Gous (Islamabad): Unbeaten 80* off 45, with 11 boundaries, earning Player of the Match.
- Usman Khan (Multan): 61 off 40, providing a solid platform.
- Colin Munro (Islamabad): 45 off 28, accelerating the chase.
Islamabad’s victory strengthens its PSL 2025 campaign, showcasing its batting depth and bowling discipline. Despite a competitive total, Multan struggled to contain Gous’ aggression, highlighting its need for sharper death bowling. The match at a vibrant Multan venue underscores the PSL’s growing intensity.
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— PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) April 23, 2025Islamabad’s chase was clinical, but their early reliance on Farhan’s form exposed a potential top-order vulnerability if he fails. Multan’s batting showed promise, but losing key wickets at critical junctures, like Usman’s run-out, cost them momentum. The Sultans’ bowling, particularly in the powerplay, lacked penetration, allowing Gous and Munro to dominate. While the PSL’s competitive balance is evident, Multan’s inconsistent performances raise questions about their title credentials compared to United’s relentless form.
Lineups
- Multan Sultans: Mohammad Rizwan (c, wk), Yasir Khan, Usman Khan, Kamran Ghulam, Tayyab Tahir, Michael Bracewell, Iftikhar Ahmed, Chris Jordan, Usama Mir, Josh Little, Ubaid Shah.
- Islamabad United: Shadab Khan (c), Andries Gous (wk), Sahibzada Farhan, Colin Munro, Muhammad Nawaz, Haider Ali, Jason Holder, Imad Wasim, Saad Masood, Riley Meredith, Salman Irshad.
