Cricket News, Multan Sultans, Cricket Updates
Multan Sultans climbed back to the top of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) points table with a commanding six-wicket victory over Quetta Gladiators at Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday night. The win was set up by a clinical spin-bowling performance and a match-defining half-century from Steven Smith.
Chasing a target of 167, the Sultans got off to a blistering start thanks to Smith and Sahibzada Farhan. The duo raced to 63 runs within the first four overs, bringing up their 50-run partnership in just 3.2 overs. By the end of the powerplay, Multan had reached 83 for 1, equalling their own record for the highest powerplay score this season.
Smith, who registered his maiden PSL half-century, played a pivotal role in dismantling the Gladiators’ bowling attack. His aggressive approach ensured the chase was well under control early, leaving Multan needing just 84 runs from 84 balls at one stage.
After Smith’s dismissal — courtesy of an excellent relay catch at the boundary — Shan Masood anchored the innings with a composed unbeaten 40 off 36 balls. His steady presence ensured there were no late hiccups as Sultans comfortably chased down the target.
Earlier, Multan’s strategy to deploy spin heavily proved decisive. Opting to bowl as many as 16 overs of spin on a batting-friendly surface, the Sultans capitalized on Quetta’s vulnerability against turn. The move paid immediate dividends as Khawaja Nafay and Shamyl Hussain were dismissed within the first 2.1 overs.
Quetta attempted a recovery through Saud Shakeel and Hasan Nawaz, who stitched together a 55-run partnership. However, the momentum was broken by a sharp stumping from Josh Philippe off Arafat Minhas, who emerged as the standout bowler with figures of 2 for 14. Mohammad Nawaz further tightened the grip with three crucial wickets.
Despite a resilient 56 from Shakeel, Quetta struggled to accelerate. Late contributions from Bevon Jacobs (49 not out off 31) and Ahmed Daniyal (22 off 9) pushed the total to 166, though Daniyal’s innings was cut short due to a hamstring injury.
Multan’s spinners dominated proceedings, conceding just 91 runs across 16 overs while claiming all six wickets. The disciplined bowling effort laid the foundation for a comfortable chase.
With this win — their third in four matches — Multan Sultans reaffirmed their strong form and secured the top spot in the standings, further establishing themselves as early contenders in the tournament.
