Bracewell, Samad power Zalmi to record chase against Pindiz

A stunning late assault from Michael Bracewell and Abdul Samad powered Peshawar Zalmi to a thrilling five-wicket victory over Rawalpindi Pindiz in a high-scoring Pakistan Super League 2026 encounter at Gaddafi Stadium.

Chasing a daunting 215, Zalmi looked down and out before Bracewell and Samad produced one of the most explosive finishes in PSL history. The duo stitched a breathtaking 64-run partnership off just 23 balls, turning the game on its head when 74 were still required off the last five overs.

Bracewell remained unbeaten on 35 off 17 balls, while Samad’s blistering 33 off just 11 deliveries — featuring four towering sixes — dismantled Pindiz’s bowling attack. Their calculated aggression shifted momentum dramatically, especially after they took apart previously economical bowlers in the 16th and 17th overs.

The match was effectively sealed in the penultimate over when Aamer Jamal smashed 17 off just five balls, leaving only a single run for the final over.

Earlier, Zalmi’s chase had a steady start led by captain Babar Azam and Mohammad Haris, who added a quick-fire 50 inside five overs. However, a middle-overs slowdown — including a boundary drought of 26 balls — saw the chase slipping away following the dismissals of Babar, Haris, and Kusal Mendis.

Pindiz, meanwhile, had earlier posted an imposing 214 for 4, thanks to a scintillating 83 off 46 balls from Yasir Khan. His aggressive strokeplay, which included seven fours and six sixes, set the tone for the innings.

He was well supported by Mohammad Rizwan, who overcame a slow start to score 41, with the duo sharing a commanding 125-run opening stand. Late cameos from the likes of Daryl Mitchell and Sam Billings propelled Pindiz past the 200-mark.

Despite their strong total, Pindiz’s bowling attack — featuring names like Naseem Shah and Mohammad Amir — failed to contain Zalmi’s late onslaught.

This marked the first time Zalmi successfully chased down such a high target in PSL history, and only the third instance of a 200-plus total being chased at Gaddafi Stadium. It was a night that underlined the unpredictable, high-octane nature of T20 cricket — where no total is ever truly safe.