In a commanding performance, Multan Sultans secured a resounding 55-run victory over Karachi Kings in Match 3 of HBL Pakistan Super League 2024 at the Multan Cricket Stadium on Sunday, February 18, 2024.
Match Summary:
- Multan Sultans: 185/2 (20 overs)
- Karachi Kings: 130/8 (20 overs)
Result: Multan Sultans won by 55 runs.
Match Analysis:
Multan Sultans, last season’s runners-up, started HBL PSL 9 on a high note, dominating Karachi Kings with a strong all-round performance. The home team, batting first, posted an impressive total of 185/2, thanks to half-centuries from Reeza Hendricks (79*) and Dawid Malan (52). In response, Karachi Kings struggled, managing only 130/8 in their allotted 20 overs.
Key Moments:
- Opting to bat after winning the toss, Multan Sultans faced an early setback with the dismissal of captain Mohammad Rizwan (12). However, Reeza Hendricks and Dawid Malan’s partnership of 121 runs set the tone for a formidable total.
- Hendricks, making his HBL PSL debut, showcased his prowess with an unbeaten 79 off 54 balls, earning him the Player of the Match title.
- Karachi Kings’ bowling woes continued as Daniel Sams and Mir Hamza were the only wicket-takers, restricting Multan Sultans to 185.
- In the chase, Karachi Kings faced early setbacks with James Vince and Saad Baig departing early, thanks to David Willey’s impressive spell.
- Shoaib Malik’s fifty (53) provided some resistance, but the Multan Sultans bowlers, led by Mohammad Ali (3 wickets for 23 runs), dismantled the opposition’s batting lineup.
- Multan Sultan’s bowled out Karachi Kings for 130, securing a comprehensive victory.
Player Performances:
- Reeza Hendricks: 79* runs (54 balls), 7 fours, 3 sixes
- Dawid Malan: 52 runs (41 balls), 4 fours, 1 six
- Shoaib Malik: 53 runs (35 balls), 5 fours, 2 sixes
- Mohammad Ali: 3 wickets for 23 runs
Conclusion:
Multan Sultan’s’ convincing win in their opening match of HBL PSL 9 showcased their strength and depth. The team’s solid batting performance, coupled with effective bowling, sets a promising tone for their campaign in the tournament. Karachi Kings, on the other hand, will look to regroup and bounce back from this defeat in the upcoming matches.
