Multan Sultans Clinch High-Scoring Thriller Against Karachi Kings to Secure Victory
KARACHI – In a high-octane encounter at the National Bank Stadium, the Multan Sultans held their nerve to defeat the Karachi Kings by 11 runs. A late-order blitz and a disciplined bowling performance ensured the Sultans successfully defended a massive total in Match 28 of the tournament.
The Final Assault: Sultans Power Past 200
The Sultans’ innings was defined by steady contributions at the top and a volcanic finish. Shan Masood (46) and Josh Philippe (44) provided a solid foundation, while Muhammad Awais Zafar added a brisk 36. However, it was the final two overs that truly shifted the momentum.
With the score looking competitive but manageable, Muhammad Imran launched a devastating assault. He smashed an unbeaten 26 from just eight deliveries, including two towering sixes and two boundaries. Alongside Mohammad Wasim Jnr, the duo plundered 33 runs from the final 11 balls, propelling Multan to a formidable 207-7.
Karachi’s Spirited Chase Falls Short
Chasing 208, the Karachi Kings showed incredible fight but struggled to maintain the soaring required run rate. Reeza Hendricks anchored the chase with 49, supported by a quick-fire 34 from Mohammad Abbas Afridi. Despite late cameos from Moeen Ali (27) and Hasan Ali (23), the Kings were eventually bowled out for 196 in 19.4 overs.
The Sultans’ bowling unit, led by the young sensation Arafat Minhas, proved to be the difference. Minhas followed up his handy batting with a stellar spell, claiming 3-32, while veteran Peter Siddle provided crucial breakthroughs, finishing with 2-28.
Match Summary
- Multan Sultans: 207-7 (20 overs)
- Karachi Kings: 196 all out (19.4 overs)
- Result: Multan Sultans won by 11 runs.
Player of the Match: Arafat Minhas for his exceptional all-round performance, turning the tide for the Sultans in a pressure-cooker environment.
