Karachi Survive Zalmi Scare to Grab Third PSL Win

In one of the most thrilling clashes of the HBL PSL X so far, Karachi Kings pulled off a dramatic two-wicket win over Peshawar Zalmi, chasing down a modest 148-run target with just three balls to spare at the National Bank Stadium on Monday night. It was a game that had it all—pressure, drama, and stand-out performances—especially from David Warner and Khushdil Shah.

Warner’s Class, Khushdil’s Composure: A Winning Combo

Karachi Kings’ skipper David Warner, once again proving why he’s among the most consistent T20 performers globally, anchored the chase with a calm and calculated 60 off 47 deliveries, laced with eight boundaries. In doing so, he also completed a monumental 13,000 runs in T20 cricket, becoming a rare member of the elite club.

But the match truly turned in the final overs when Khushdil Shah, already a standout with the ball, stood tall under pressure with a match-winning 23 off 17 balls*. His calm head and clever strokeplay helped steer Kings over the line in the last over when they needed 9 runs with just 2 wickets remaining.

Top Order Collapse: 

Despite a relatively low target, the chase began on a shaky note for the Kings. Tim Seifert was dismissed for a golden duck by a fiery Luke Wood, who also accounted for James Vince, giving Peshawar an early upper hand. The early losses meant Warner had to not only build a platform but also guide a shaky middle order.

Karachi looked to rebuild with a few promising partnerships, but regular wickets—including Mohammad Irfan Khan’s unfortunate run-out—kept the game hanging in balance.

Zalmi’s Defense Falters Despite Babar’s Knock

Earlier, Peshawar Zalmi could only manage 147-8 in their 20 overs, a total that looked below par from the start. Captain Babar Azam top-scored with a patient 46 off 41, but his cautious approach combined with wickets falling at crucial intervals hindered Zalmi’s ability to post a competitive total.

Khushdil Shah played a dual role in Zalmi’s struggle, returning bowling figures of 3 for 20 in 3 overs, dismantling the middle order. He was ably supported by Mohammad Abbas Afridi, who also picked up 3 for 30.

While Mohammad Haris (28 off 21) provided a spark and Alzarri Joseph’s 24 off 13* gave some late momentum, Zalmi never truly recovered from their middle-overs slowdown.

PSL X Turning into a Tactical Battlefield

This win marked Karachi Kings’ third victory of the season, wrapping up their Karachi leg on a high. With the competition heating up, momentum and net run-rate could be crucial for playoff qualification.

On the other hand, Zalmi will be questioning their middle-order approach and death-over execution. Despite a sharp bowling spell from Luke Wood (3 for 28) and some impressive pace from youngster Ali Raza (2 for 32), they lacked the killer punch in crunch moments.

Takeaways

The Warner Effect

Warner’s leadership and batting class are proving vital. His milestone of 13,000 T20 runs underscores his unmatched experience, which will be key as the tournament progresses.

Khushdil: The Ultimate Utility Man

Khushdil’s dual performance makes a strong case for national selectors. Few players can influence a match so heavily with both bat and ball.

Zalmi’s Overdependence on Babar

Once again, Zalmi’s innings was built around Babar Azam. While his technique and consistency are unmatched, the team needs faster middle-over scoring to be a serious title contender.

Rise of Young Talent

Ali Raza’s consistent pace and movement are giving Zalmi reasons to hope. The teenager could be a long-term asset for Pakistan cricket.

 PSL X: The League of Fine Margins

This season of PSL has shown that even low targets aren’t safe, and experience often trumps flashy power-hitting when the pressure mounts.

Match Summary: 

Venue: National Bank Stadium, Karachi
Result: Karachi Kings won by 2 wickets
Player of the Match: Khushdil Shah (3-20 & 23*)

Peshawar Zalmi – 147/8 (20 overs)

• Babar Azam – 46 (41)

• Mohammad Haris – 28 (21)

• Khushdil Shah – 3/20

• Abbas Afridi – 3/30

Karachi Kings – 148/8 (19.3 overs)

• David Warner – 60 (47)

• Khushdil Shah – 23* (17)

• Luke Wood – 3/28

• Ali Raza – 2/32

What’s Next for Both Sides?

As Karachi Kings gear up for the next leg of the tournament, their momentum could be the difference-maker. Peshawar Zalmi will need to regroup quickly—rethinking both their batting strategy and their use of bowlers in the death overs.

PSL X 2025 Points Table (As of Match 11)