Sameer Minhas Stars as Islamabad United Hammer RawalPindiz by Seven Wickets
LAHORE: A scintillating innings from emerging opener Sameer Minhas, combined with disciplined bowling from Islamabad United’s pacers, propelled the three-time champions to a commanding seven-wicket victory over RawalPindiz in the 12th fixture of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 at the Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday.
Chasing a modest target of 157, United wrapped up the game comfortably, finishing at 158/3 with 34 balls to spare. Sameer stole the spotlight with a rapid 70 off just 36 deliveries, laced with seven boundaries and three sixes. He received solid support from Mohammad Faiq (19) at the top and the unbeaten middle-order duo of Haider Ali (26) and Mark Chapman (24), ensuring a smooth chase.
RawalPindiz struggled to build momentum despite a resilient half-century from Kamran Ghulam. United captain Shadab Khan’s decision to field first paid dividends as the Pindiz slumped to 15/4 inside four overs. Richard Gleeson struck early, removing both openers, Yasir Khan and Mohammad Rizwan, for minimal scores.
Ghulam, walking in at No.3, tried to stabilize the innings and stitched together a 51-run partnership with Daryl Mitchell (19 off 15 balls). Ghulam reached his third PSL fifty off 37 balls, finishing the 11th over with a six over long-on. However, he fell shortly after, caught behind off Faheem Ashraf, ending with 50 from 39 deliveries, including six fours and two sixes.
The Pindiz continued to lose wickets at regular intervals and ultimately posted a below-par 156/7, despite notable contributions from Abdullah Fazal (23) and Dian Forrester (44*).
United’s pace battery—Salman Irshad, Gleeson, and Faheem—shared six wickets, with experienced all-rounder Imad Wasim picking up one more to complete the bowling effort.
With this comprehensive win, Islamabad United now have two victories in the tournament, while RawalPindiz are left to regroup after a third consecutive defeat.
