Karachi, April 28, 2026: Captain Babar Azam produced a scintillating century to lead Peshawar Zalmi to a commanding total of 221/7 against Islamabad United in the Qualifier of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 11 at the National Bank Stadium on Tuesday.
Opting to bat first proved costly for United skipper Shadab Khan as Zalmi capitalised with a dominant batting display, anchored by Babar’s superb knock.
Zalmi made a flying start, with Babar and Mohammad Haris adding 72 runs for the opening wicket. Haris provided early momentum with a brisk 35 off 16 balls, striking five fours and two sixes, before falling to Shadab in the seventh over.
Babar then stitched together a crucial 84-run partnership with Kusal Mendis, maintaining the scoring rate. Mendis contributed 41 off 26 deliveries, including five boundaries and a six, before being dismissed by Faheem Ashraf in the 15th over.
United briefly clawed back into the contest when Shadab removed Michael Bracewell and Abdul Samad in quick succession, reducing Zalmi to 164/4.
However, Babar held firm, continuing his masterclass innings to bring up his fourth PSL century in the 18th over. He eventually departed for a brilliant 103 off 59 balls, laced with 12 fours and four sixes, falling to Salman Mirza.
Late contributions from Aaron Hardie, who scored a quick 20 off 10 balls, boosted Zalmi past the 220 mark. Richard Gleeson struck twice in the final over, including the wicket of Farhan Yousaf, to pull things back slightly for United.
Shadab was the standout bowler for Islamabad United, finishing with figures of 3/42 in his four overs. Gleeson claimed two wickets, while Faheem Ashraf and Salman Mirza picked up one each.
With a formidable total on the board, Zalmi have put themselves in a strong position in this high-stakes knockout clash.
