Islamabad crushed Karachi to Seal 2nd Spot in PSL 2025 League Stage
The final league match of PSL 2025 ended with fireworks from Islamabad United. Facing Karachi Kings in a must-win battle for second place, United delivered with dominance in both batting and bowling. After 4 consecutive loses, Islamabad made a strong comeback before playoffs.
Islamabad Show Batting Power
Islamabad United began their innings with confidence and clear intent. After losing the toss, they were sent to bat first by Karachi Kings.That decision would soon haunt the Kings. Alex Hales and Sahibzada Farhan came out all guns blazing. Hales was unstoppable from ball one. He smashed a furious 88 off 35 balls, including 8 sixes and 4 boundaries.
Sahibzada Farhan also played his part beautifully. He scored 73 off 41 deliveries. Together, they built a rock-solid opening partnership that broke Karachi’s hopes early. Karachi’s bowlers had no answers. Even experienced names were punished. Shadab Khan joined the party late in the innings. He added 42 off just 19 balls, giving Islamabad a total of 251/5 in 20 overs. It was Islamabad’s highest total of the season, and the second highest in PSL history.
Karachi Kings Collapse Chasing 204
Karachi needed to score 204 runs to keep their 2nd position on the table. But Islamabad’s bowlers came in with a clear plan and hunger to dominate. David Warner gave a good start. He made 43 runs off 28 balls. However, regular wickets at the other end hurt Karachi’s chase. Abbas Afridi and Tim Seifert tried to stabilize the innings but could not build momentum.
Shadab Khan once again rose to the occasion. He bowled four brilliant overs and picked up 4 wickets for 45 runs. His all-round performance sealed the game for Islamabad. Salman Irshad also chipped in with 3/28, while Imad Wasim delivered a tight spell with 2/22. Eventually, Karachi were bowled out for 172 in 18.2 overs.
Shadab and Hales Power Islamabad to Qualifier in PSL 2025
With this dominant win, Islamabad United sealed the 2nd spot in the PSL 2025 standings.This gives them a valuable second chance in the Qualifier match. Karachi Kings, on the other hand, now face the pressure of the Eliminator.Their top-two finish hopes were crushed by a more aggressive and composed Islamabad side.
What’s Next in PSL 2025 Playoffs?
- Qualifier: Quetta Gladiators vs Islamabad United
- Eliminator 1: Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars
Islamabad have the momentum. With their key players firing in all departments, they are strong title contenders.
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