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In what turned out to be an absolute run-fest at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi, the Karachi Kings pulled off the highest successful chase in Pakistan Super League (PSL) history, chasing down a daunting 235-run target against the Multan Sultans with four balls to spare. The thrilling contest, which was the third match of PSL Season 10, was headlined by an explosive century from James Vince and a game-changing partnership with Khushdil Shah.
Multan Sultans Set a Mammoth Total Led by Rizwan’s Century
Put in to bat first, the Multan Sultans made full use of batting-friendly conditions to post a formidable total of 234/3 in their 20 overs. Skipper Mohammad Rizwan was in sublime touch, anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 105 off 63 balls, peppered with 9 fours and 5 sixes.
The innings began with Rizwan and Shai Hope adding 55 runs in just five overs. Hope’s role was short-lived as he departed for 8, but Rizwan found handy partners throughout the innings.
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- Usman Khan added a quick 19 off 15 before falling to Hasan Ali.
- The third-wicket stand between Rizwan and Kamran Ghulam added another 63 runs. Ghulam’s 36 off 19 provided the necessary impetus in the middle overs.
- The fireworks, however, came in the final overs, courtesy of Rizwan and Michael Bracewell, who combined for an unbeaten 89-run partnership in just 32 deliveries. Bracewell’s 44* off 17 included 5 fours and 3 sixes, giving the Sultans the edge going into the second innings.
Karachi’s Record Chase Begins with Early Fireworks
In pursuit of 235, Karachi Kings came out swinging. New recruit Tim Seifert got things rolling with a blistering cameo — 32 off 16 balls — hitting 2 fours and 3 sixes to get the Kings ahead of the required rate early.
Despite the early dismissal of Shan Masood, Karachi didn’t lose momentum. It was the arrival of James Vince that completely turned the tide of the game.
Vince and Khushdil’s 142-Run Stand Turns the Game
Vince, known for his elegant yet destructive stroke play, was in rare form. He tore apart the Sultans’ bowling attack, bringing up his century in just 43 balls. His knock included 14 boundaries and 4 sixes, demonstrating a masterclass in T20 chasing.
Alongside him, Khushdil Shah provided the perfect support. His 60 off 38 balls, decorated with 5 fours and 4 sixes, ensured the pressure never shifted back to Multan. Their 142-run partnership came at a brisk pace and laid the perfect foundation for a successful chase.
Late Drama But Karachi Hold Their Nerve
With both Vince and Khushdil dismissed in quick succession — the Kings at 222/6 in 18.3 overs — the match seemed poised for a tense finish. But Muhammad Irfan Khan and Abbas Afridi remained composed under pressure.
Needing 13 runs off the last 9 balls, the duo rotated the strike smartly and sealed the match on the second delivery of the final over, sparking wild celebrations in the Karachi camp.
Multan’s Bowling Falters Despite Big Total
While Multan’s batters did their job, their bowlers couldn’t defend what would usually be a match-winning score. Akif Javed stood out with 3 wickets, while Michael Bracewell and Usama Mir claimed one each. But the Kings’ aggressive batting proved too hot to handle.
