Defending champions Islamabad United maintained their impressive form in HBL PSL X, overpowering Multan Sultans by 47 runs at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in the tournament’s seventh match on Wednesday night.

By PakPassion Staff (April 16,2025)

Jason Holder was pivotal for United, excelling with both bat and ball. He contributed a rapid unbeaten 32 off 14 balls, helping United surpass 200 runs, and later claimed four wickets to dismiss the Sultans for 155 in 18.4 overs.

The Sultans’ run chase faltered early when Naseem Shah removed Shai Hope in the opening over. Usman Khan and captain Mohammad Rizwan responded with an aggressive 59-run partnership off 32 balls, but Usman’s dismissal for 31 by Imad Wasim disrupted their momentum.

Rizwan, who scored 38 from 27 balls, became the fourth wicket to fall with the score at 96, as United tightened their grip. Holder then ripped through the lower order, taking the wickets of David Willey, Usama Mir, and Mohammad Hasnain, finishing with figures of 4-0-25-4. Imad Wasim also contributed with two wickets for 33 runs.

Earlier, United’s innings was boosted by late fireworks from Holder and Haider Ali, who added 64 runs in the final four overs. Haider smashed 33 off 16 balls, while Sahibzada Farhan, the tournament’s leading run-scorer, anchored the start with 53 from 35 deliveries. Colin Munro chipped in with a brisk 48 off 25 balls.

Chris Jordan was the most successful bowler for Multan Sultans, taking 2 for 41.

With this win, Islamabad United strengthened their position at the top of the points table, while Multan Sultans remained fifth after two consecutive losses.