Hasan Nawaz guides Gladiators to top spot

Hasan Nawaz’s explosive performance led Quetta Gladiators to a thrilling victory over Multan Sultans in the 28th match of Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10.

With this win, Quetta Gladiators moved to the top of the points table, while Multan Sultans were eliminated from the tournament.

Chasing a target of 186 runs set by Multan Sultans, Quetta Gladiators emerged victorious on the final ball of the match, losing eight wickets in the process. Nawaz’s blistering, unbeaten knock of 67 runs off just 38 balls earned him the Man of the Match award. His innings included six towering sixes and two boundaries, anchoring the chase and ensuring Quetta’s success.

Khawaja Nafay also played a crucial role, contributing a rapid 51 runs from 26 balls, which included four sixes and five fours. The aggressive batting of both Nawaz and Nafay dismantled Multan’s bowling attack and ensured Quetta’s dominance in the chase. The foundation for the win was set by a solid 77-run opening partnership between Quetta’s captain, Saud Shakeel, and Nafay.

For Multan Sultans, Shahid Aziz was the standout bowler, claiming three wickets and momentarily halting Quetta’s progress. Mohammad Hasnain, Ubaid Shah, and Peter Hatzoglou each claimed one wicket, but they were unable to stop the onslaught from Quetta’s batting.

Earlier, Multan Sultans opted to bat first after winning the toss and posted a total of 185 runs for the loss of seven wickets in their 20 overs. Yasir Khan top-scored with a solid 45-run knock, while Tayyab Tahir added 36 runs. Shahid Aziz contributed 29, and Jahanzeb Sultan chipped in with 25 runs.

On the bowling front, Quetta Gladiators’ Usman Tariq delivered an impressive performance, claiming three wickets for 32 runs. He was well supported by Khurram Shehzad, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim Jr, and Abrar Ahmed, each taking one wicket.

So far, Quetta Gladiators and Karachi Kings have confirmed their spots in the playoff stage, while Multan Sultans have officially exited the tournament. The battle for the remaining playoff spots is intensifying, with defending champions Islamabad United, Lahore Qalandars, and Peshawar Zalmi all still vying for qualification.

The PSL 10 playoffs, including the Qualifier, Eliminator 1, Eliminator 2, and Final, are scheduled to take place at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore from May 21 to 25.