Zalmi extend PSL lead with commanding win over Sultans

KARACHI: Peshawar Zalmi tightened their grip at the top of the Pakistan Super League standings with a composed 24-run victory over Multan Sultans in a high-stakes encounter on April 13.

The result saw Zalmi move three points clear after registering their fifth win in six matches, underlining their dominance in this year’s competition. Batting first, Zalmi posted an imposing 196-6, a total that ultimately proved beyond Multan despite a competitive chase.

Zalmi’s innings revolved around a fluent knock from Kusal Mendis, who continued his exceptional form with a 68 off 40 balls. The Sri Lankan batter, coming into the match on the back of scores of 109 and 74, once again provided the backbone of Zalmi’s batting effort, guiding them to a total that kept the pressure firmly on their opponents.

In response, Multan Sultans kept themselves in contention for much of the chase, reaching a stage where they required 51 runs from the final five overs with six wickets in hand. However, Zalmi’s disciplined bowling and timely breakthroughs turned the tide in their favor.

The key moment came when Iftikhar Ahmed dismissed Shan Masood for 35, a wicket that significantly dented Multan’s hopes of pulling off the chase. From there, Zalmi maintained relentless pressure, restricting Multan to 172-8 and sealing a comfortable victory.

The win not only strengthens Zalmi’s position at the summit but also highlights their balance as a side capable of both setting and defending challenging totals. For Multan, who remain in second place, the defeat serves as a reminder of how quickly momentum can shift in T20 cricket when key wickets fall at crucial junctures.

With the tournament entering a decisive phase, Zalmi’s latest triumph further shapes the points table and raises the stakes for the upcoming fixtures, as other teams look to close the gap at the top.