Multan Sultans showcased a commanding all-around performance to claim a six-wicket victory over Quetta Gladiators in the 13th match of PSL 11 held at Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday. Chasing a target of 167, the Sultans maintained control throughout their innings, reaching the total comfortably with 15 balls to spare while losing only four wickets.
The chase was marked by a steady pace, ensuring the required run rate never escalated into pressure. The match’s momentum was established early when Quetta’s opening pair, Sahibzada Farhan and Colin Smith, launched a rapid 71-run partnership in just five overs, putting Quetta in a strong position initially. Farhan was particularly aggressive, scoring 32 runs off 14 deliveries before Alzarri Joseph ended the partnership, preventing Quetta from gaining further momentum.
Quetta managed to regain some ground briefly, taking another wicket soon after, with Josh Philippe dismissed by Saud Shakeel. However, the early damage had already tilted the contest in Multan’s favor. Smith anchored the innings with a fluent 53 off 35 balls, while Shan Masood provided stability, forming a crucial partnership that extended Multan’s advantage. Their composed approach was vital during this phase, balancing strike rate with control.
Despite losing wickets at key moments, Multan Sultans maintained their grip on the match. Arafat Minhas contributed before Masood took command, finishing unbeaten on 46 to guide the team home in the 18th over. Earlier, Quetta Gladiators posted 166 for 7, a total that appeared slightly below par given the conditions at Gaddafi Stadium.
Quetta’s innings started poorly with early dismissals of both openers. Although captain Saud Shakeel tried to stabilize the innings with a patient 56, and Jacob offered late resistance with an unbeaten 49, their efforts were insufficient against a disciplined Multan bowling attack. Hasan Nawaz stood out with three wickets, supported by Arafat Minhas who took two, ensuring Quetta could not accelerate in the latter stages of their innings.
In a tournament like PSL 11, restricting the opposition’s scoring in the final overs often proves decisive. Multan Sultans’ polished and balanced performance—combining aggression with discipline—provides them with valuable momentum as the tournament progresses into its early stages.
