Peshawar Zalmi and Multan Sultans recorded contrasting victories in an action-packed day of Pakistan Super League matches on 19 April.
Peshawar Zalmi delivered one of the most dominant performances of the tournament, crushing Quetta Gladiators by 118 runs after posting a massive total of 255 for 3 in 20 overs. Babar Azam led the charge with a superb unbeaten century, scoring 100 off 52 balls and anchoring the innings with authority.
He was well supported by Kusal Mendis, who struck 83 from 44 deliveries, while Aaron Hardie added a quick unbeaten 26 to push the total beyond reach. Quetta’s bowlers struggled to contain the scoring, conceding heavily throughout the innings.
In reply, Quetta Gladiators were unable to cope with the pressure of the chase and were bowled out for 137 in 18.1 overs. Bevon Jacobs top-scored with 34, but the rest of the batting line-up failed to build partnerships. Ali Raza starred with the ball, taking 3 wickets for just 9 runs, as Zalmi sealed a comprehensive victory.
Babar Azam was named Player of the Match for his match-defining century, which proved to be the difference between the two sides.
In the second match of the day, Multan Sultans edged Karachi Kings by 11 runs in a much tighter contest.
Multan posted 207 for 7 after a strong batting effort led by Shan Masood, who scored 46 off 25 balls, while Josh Philippe added 44 and Awais Zafar contributed 36. Despite regular wickets, the Sultans maintained a healthy scoring rate to cross the 200 mark.
Karachi Kings responded with intent but fell just short, finishing on 196 in 19.4 overs. Reeza Hendricks led the chase with 49, while Abbas Afridi kept hopes alive with a quick 34, but the required rate proved too steep in the closing overs.
Arafat Minhas played a decisive role with an impressive all-round performance, taking 3 wickets for 32 runs and also contributing 17 with the bat. His spell in the middle overs turned the match in Multan’s favour.
Minhas was named Player of the Match for his crucial contribution in a closely fought encounter.
The results highlight Peshawar Zalmi’s dominance in a one-sided contest and Multan Sultans’ ability to hold their nerve in a tight finish, adding further intensity to the PSL season.
