Babar Azam’s outstanding performance, scoring his second century of the season, propelled Peshawar Zalmi to a decisive 70-run victory over Islamabad United, securing their spot in the PSL final. The match, held on Tuesday, showcased Peshawar’s dominant batting as they posted 221 runs with Babar leading the charge.
The Peshawar captain’s impressive innings included 103 runs off 59 balls, featuring 12 fours and four sixes. His exceptional form was pivotal as the team set a formidable target. In response, Islamabad United struggled significantly, ending their innings at 151 runs in just 18.4 overs.
Peshawar’s bowlers were particularly effective, with Australian pacer Aaron Hardie emerging as the standout performer. His figures of 4 overs, 24 runs, and 3 wickets played a crucial role in dismantling Islamabad’s batting lineup. Promising opener Sameer Minhas managed to score 44 runs off 23 balls, but the rest of the team faltered against Peshawar’s disciplined bowling.
Babar credited the team’s collective efforts in both bowling and fielding, emphasizing the importance of executing their strategies throughout the tournament. Looking ahead to the final, he expressed a desire to maintain their focus and capitalize on their current momentum.
As they prepare for the championship match, Peshawar Zalmi will be bolstered by Babar’s remarkable revival. After a challenging T20 World Cup earlier this year, he has become the leading scorer in this PSL season with 588 runs from 10 matches, averaging 84 with a strike rate of 146.26, including two centuries.
In reflecting on his performance, Babar shared his approach to returning to form. He stressed the importance of simplicity, trusting his skills, and adapting his game to the demands of the pitch and opposition bowlers. His preparation prior to the PSL appears to be paying off, and he aims to sustain this level of consistency moving forward.
Support for Babar came from Kusal Mendis and Mohammad Haris, who contributed 41 runs off 26 balls and 35 runs off 16 balls, respectively, helping Peshawar to a significant total. In terms of bowling, Hardie had reliable backing from left-arm spinner Sufiyan Muqeem, who claimed 2 wickets for 25 runs, along with medium pacer Mohammad Basit, who also took 2 wickets, conceding only 19 runs.
Despite the loss, Islamabad United will have a second chance to reach the finals, as they prepare for Eliminator 2 on Friday. Looking ahead, Multan Sultans will face Hyderabad Kingsmen in Eliminator 1 on Wednesday, with the winner advancing to the subsequent match.