Reeza Hendricks’s second consecutive half-century propelled Multan Sultans to a five-wicket victory against Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 9’s fifth match at Multan Cricket Stadium.
Chasing a modest target of 145, the Sultans encountered an early setback, losing Dawid Malan to Naseem Shah in the opening.
A partnership of 71 runs between captain Mohammad Rizwan and Reeza Hendricks facilitated steady progress for the hosts until Islamabad United’s captain, Shadab Khan, disrupted their rhythm.
Khan’s leg break against Rizwan led to an immediate appeal and dismissal despite a review attempt. Rizwan departed after contributing 43 runs off 33 balls, including six boundaries and two sixes.
Hendricks maintained his excellent form, leading the scoring for the Sultans with 58 off 46 balls, adorned with seven boundaries and a six. However, his innings were cut short by Tymal Mills.
As the game approached a tense finale, Naseem Shah’s removal of Khushdil Shah hinted at a potential comeback for Islamabad United.
Despite the pressure, Iftikhar Ahmed and David Willey reached the target with just one ball to spare.
Shah emerged as the leading bowler for United, securing figures of 2-27. Imad Wasim, Mills, and Khan each took a wicket.
Opting to bowl, the Sultans quickly made an impact, leaving United at 14-2. Agha Salman and Jordan Cox’s partnership of 68 runs from 48 balls helped the visitors stabilize after early losses.
Cox contributed a brisk 41 off 28 balls before being dismissed by Usama Mir. Salman, undeterred, and Azam Khan briefly rallied before falling to Abbas Afridi, who played a key role in checking United’s momentum.
A 35-run stand between Khan and Salman pushed United’s total to 140, but Afridi’s double strike restricted their recovery.
Salman’s 52 off 43, featuring three boundaries and two sixes, anchored United’s innings. The final over by Mohammad Ali saw three wickets fall, concluding United’s innings at 144.
Afridi and Ali finished with figures of 3-29 and 3-19, respectively, while Mir claimed two wickets, highlighting a disciplined bowling performance from the Sultans.
