Sultans Reign Supreme: Multan Secure Playoff Footing as Pindiz Slump Continues
KARACHI – The Multan Sultans further solidified their status as title contenders in PSL 11, dismantling the RawalPindiz by six wickets at the National Bank Stadium on Tuesday. While the debutant Pindiz showed flashes of brilliance with the bat, they were ultimately unable to halt a rampant Multan side that seems destined for the knockout stages.
Pindiz Set a Formidable Target
After winning the toss and electing to bat, the RawalPindiz posted a competitive 166/4. The innings was anchored by the steady hand of Daryl Mitchell, who remained unbeaten on 58 from 46 balls. Mitchell provided the necessary stability before Dian Forrester injected late-innings adrenaline, smashing a quickfire 37 off just 15 deliveries.
Contributions from Sam Billings (29) and Captain Rizwan (26) helped push the debutants to what looked like a defendable total. Multan’s bowling attack remained disciplined, sharing the spoils with Peter Siddle, Mohammad Imran, Mohammad Wasim Jr, and Arafat Minhas all claiming one wicket each.
The Smith Show
The chase, however, was a masterclass in calculated aggression. The experienced Steve Smith turned back the clock, blitzing 56 runs off only 31 balls. His innings, decorated with three sixes and three fours, effectively broke the back of the chase and demoralized the Pindiz bowling attack.
Skipper Ashton Turner ensured there were no late hiccups, finishing unbeaten on 37 from 21 balls. Supporting acts from Sahibzada Farhan and vice-captain Shan Masood (20 runs each) meant the Sultans reached the 167-run target with eight balls to spare.
- Key Performer: Steve Smith’s 56 (31) shifted the momentum entirely, maintaining a strike rate of over 180 to keep the required rate well under control.
For the Multan Sultans, this victory keeps them within striking distance of league leaders Peshawar Zalmi. For the RawalPindiz, the search for a maiden PSL victory continues. Despite a standout bowling effort from Asif Afridi (2/28), the debutants’ inability to defend totals remains a glaring issue as they languish at the bottom of the table.
