Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
Peshawar Zalmi Edge Past Hyderabad Kingsmen in Thrilling Low-Scoring Clash
April 8, 2026
Peshawar Zalmi secured a hard-fought four-wicket victory over Hyderabad Kingsmen in a tense, low-scoring encounter during PSL 11 at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium.
Chasing a modest target of 146, Zalmi reached the total in the final over despite losing six wickets along the way. Skipper Babar Azam led from the front with a composed 43, while Kusal Mendis provided valuable support with 27 runs.
Early Setback, Strong Recovery
Zalmi’s chase began on a shaky note as Mohammad Haris was dismissed early for 11. However, Babar Azam and Kusal Mendis stabilized the innings with a crucial 49-run partnership, guiding the team past the 50-run mark.
After Mendis’ dismissal, Michael Bracewell contributed 25 runs to keep the chase on track. Babar continued to anchor the innings before being dismissed for 43 in the 15th over.
Late Drama in Final Overs
The match took a dramatic turn as Zalmi lost quick wickets, slipping to 125-6. With 14 runs required in the final over, Iftikhar Ahmed held his nerve, scoring an unbeaten 15 off 10 balls. Aamer Jamal also chipped in to help seal the win.
Iftikhar Ahmed was named Player of the Match for his all-round performance.
Kingsmen Post 145 After Strong Start
Earlier, Hyderabad Kingsmen were bowled out for 145 in 18.2 overs. Openers Maaz Sadaqat and Saim Ayub gave a decent start, but quick wickets put the team under pressure.
Iftikhar Ahmed was the standout performer with the ball, picking up four key wickets and disrupting the middle order.
A crucial 50-run partnership between Marnus Labuschagne (27) and Kusal Perera helped stabilize the innings. Perera went on to score an impressive 58 off 35 balls, hitting five fours and two sixes.
Bowlers Dominate the Game
Sufiyan Muqeem played a vital role in the later stages, taking four wickets and dismantling the lower order. Together, Iftikhar Ahmed and Sufiyan Muqeem shared eight wickets, playing a decisive role in restricting the Kingsmen.
Match Summary
- Hyderabad Kingsmen: 145 all out (18.2 overs)
- Peshawar Zalmi: 146/6 (final over)
- Result: Peshawar Zalmi won by 4 wickets
- Player of the Match: Iftikhar Ahmed
