Jason Holder shines with four wickets, while Colin Munro’s unbeaten 59 powers United to a comfortable eight-wicket victory
Defending champions Islamabad United kicked off their PSL campaign with a dominant eight-wicket victory over Lahore Qalandars, showcasing a clinical all-round performance in their opening match. Jason Holder starred with the ball, claiming an impressive 4 for 26, while Colin Munro’s unbeaten 59 off 42 balls anchored a steady chase as United overhauled a target of 140 with 14 balls to spare.
Holder and Spinners Restrict Lahore Qalandars to 139
After winning the toss and electing to field, Islamabad United’s bowlers set the tone early. Riley Meredith removed Fakhar Zaman with a well-directed short ball, while Imad Wasim and Shadab Khan stifled the middle order with crucial breakthroughs.
Only Abdullah Shafique offered real resistance for Lahore, playing a stylish knock of 66 off 38 balls, including a lofted six off Imad. Despite his efforts, lack of support from the other end and regular wickets kept Qalandars in check. A promising partnership with Sikandar Raza worth 35 was quickly undone when Holder returned for a game-changing spell.
Holder dismissed Jahandad Khan and David Wiese on consecutive deliveries before also accounting for Shaheen Afridi, leaving Lahore reeling. Shadab Khan wrapped up the innings with his third wicket, dismissing Lahore for 139 in the final over.
Colin Munro and Agha Salman Steer Calm Chase
Islamabad United’s chase began cautiously on a pitch that offered some grip and bounce. Asif Afridi bowled a tight spell during the powerplay, removing Andries Gous and conceding just eight runs in his three overs.
Despite a slow start, Islamabad found their rhythm as Sahibzada Farhan (25 off 24) and Munro built momentum. Farhan cleared the ropes thrice before falling, while Munro continued to find boundaries, including a powerful drive off Jahandad Khan and a crisp six over extra cover against Shaheen Afridi.
With the required rate comfortably managed, Agha Salman joined Munro to accelerate the chase. A 17-run over from Wiese effectively ended Lahore’s hopes, and United cruised to the target. Agha’s confident strokeplay complemented Munro’s composed innings, and his final boundary off Jahandad Khan sealed a convincing win.
Key Takeaways:
- Jason Holder’s 4/26 dismantled Lahore’s lower order.
- Abdullah Shafique’s 66 was the lone highlight in an otherwise poor batting display.
- Colin Munro’s 59 off 42* guided a controlled chase for Islamabad.
- Agha Salman played a key supporting role in sealing the win.
- Islamabad United start their PSL title defense in dominant fashion.