PSL 9 Eliminator 2: Imad-Haider Partnership Steals The Game From Zalmi As United Head Into The Final

 



"ICE RUNNING THROUGH HIS VEINS", Ian Bishop said this on commentary when Imad Wasim won Islamabad United the game against Multan Sultans. Well, almost a week later Imad has repeated something similar against Peshawar Zalmi but this time the knock was really special as it took Islamabad United into the finals after 6 years. This time around, Imad wasn't alone, as he was supported by a reincarnated Haider Ali.

United won the toss and bowled first on a flat Karachi surface. This decision of bowling first was questioned by the commentators earlier in the game because just a day before, United defended comfortably against the Gladiators. 

Zalmi openers came out all guns blazing, specially young superstar Saim Ayub; he was unstoppable in the power play and was well-supported by the Zalmi skipper. The partnership was broken in the eighth over by Naseem as he removed Babar courtesy an exceptional catch by Shadab. Saim then slowed down after his fifty, but Mohammad Haris on the other hand scored a quick fire 40. United then pulled things back as Zalmi were unable to convert the fiery start they got. Zalmi were restricted to 185-5, which was at least 20 to 25 runs short on this pitch. Naseem and Imad were the pick of the bowlers as the quick took three wickets and Imad bowled an economical spell on a flat wicket. 

When United came out to bat, the start was an absolute disaster as they lost 4 wickets in the power play for 50 runs, and soon Azam Khan was also welcomed back in the dug out. United were 91-5 after 11 overs, and it was looking like Zalmi was one wicket away from ending United's PSL 9 run. That one wicket was never to be, as Imad and Haider had other plans. Haider was the aggressor in this match-winning partnership, as Imad anchored till the end. We saw a different version of Haider Ali in this game; he was explosive, but never went overboard while attacking. Credit also goes to Mr. Calm and Collected Imad Wasim who bossed and controlled the momentum of this partnership. 

The Final of Pakistan Super League season 9 is all set for Monday, March 18th, 2024 as Multan Sultans will take on Islamabad United. This is the third time United will play the final of PSL, previously they played in 2016 and 2018 and won on both occasions. Will they be the only team to win the PSL for a third time, or will the Sultans snatch this opportunity and lift the trophy themselves for a second time? 

Fans will have to wait till Monday to find out.


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