Sameer Minhas delivered a standout performance with an unbeaten 82, guiding Islamabad United to an eight-wicket victory over Quetta Gladiators in their PSL 2026 encounter. Chasing a target of 183 set by the Gladiators, United reached the total comfortably in 18.2 overs. Sameer’s innings included eight boundaries and three sixes, showcasing his aggressive approach.
The chase began with an opening partnership between Devon Conway and Sameer Minhas. Both players managed to settle the early pressure following their team’s fielding efforts in the first innings. Conway contributed 18 runs off 19 balls, which included two fours and a six, before being dismissed. His departure brought Andries Gous to the crease, who aimed to support Sameer but was dismissed cheaply after scoring just two runs.
Despite the early loss of key batsmen, Islamabad United maintained their composure. Captain Shadab Khan entered the fray with determination, taking calculated risks to boost the team’s momentum. His quickfire 69 runs off 39 balls played a crucial role in securing the win, as United sealed the match well before the allotted overs.
Earlier, Quetta Gladiators posted a competitive total of 183 for five in their 20 overs. The innings was anchored by captain Saud Shakeel, who scored a brisk 42 off 26 deliveries, setting an aggressive tone. Support came from Shamyl Hussain with 15 runs off 12 balls and Khawaja Nafay’s 18 runs from 14 balls. Hassan Nawaz added a spectacular cameo of 36 runs from just six balls towards the end of the innings, injecting late momentum.
Veteran Ben McDermott contributed six runs before his dismissal, while Bevon Jacobs was unable to score. Tom Curran remained unbeaten on 29 runs off 22 balls, helping Quetta reach a challenging total. Extras accounted for four runs, rounding off the Gladiators’ innings at 183 for five.
Shadab Khan was named player of the match for his impactful 69-run innings.
Meanwhile, the 2026 Pakistan Super League is off to a thrilling start. Multan Sultans (MS) and Karachi Kings (KAR) lead the points table after winning their first two matches each. MS holds the top spot with a superior net run rate of +0.868 compared to KAR’s +0.524, positioning them as early favorites.
Peshawar Zalmi (PES) and Islamabad United (ISL) occupy third and fourth places with three points apiece. Islamabad United has played three matches, recording one win, one loss, and one draw, reflecting a somewhat inconsistent beginning.
In the middle of the table, Lahore Qalandars (LAH) and Quetta Gladiators (QG) each have two points. Lahore boasts a strong net run rate of +1.567 despite a 1-1 win-loss record, while Quetta has struggled with one win and two defeats.
At the lower end, Rawalpindi Raiders (RAP) and Hyderabad Hawks (HYK) are yet to find their footing. RAP has played only one match, losing it and carrying a negative net run rate of -0.674. Hyderabad has faced a tough start with three straight losses and a net run rate of -2.077.
As the tournament progresses, fans eagerly await to see if the leading teams can sustain their form or if mid-table contenders will disrupt the standings in the upcoming weeks.
