Hyderabad Kingsmen’s fairytale PSL 11 campaign is still alive. The tournament newcomers stunned Multan Sultans by eight wickets in Eliminator 1 at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, chasing 160 with 28 balls to spare and moving into Eliminator 2 against Islamabad United.
Hyderabad Make the Chase Look Easy
Set a target of 160, Hyderabad showed no signs of pressure in a knockout game. Even after captain Marnus Labuschagne fell early for 11, the Kingsmen quickly regained control and never allowed Multan to build momentum.
The chase was completed in the 16th over, underlining just how dominant Hyderabad were on the night.
Usman Khan and Maaz Sadaqat Take Charge
The match-winning stand came from Usman Khan and Maaz Sadaqat, who put together a brilliant 92-run partnership for the second wicket. Usman attacked from the front, smashing 64 off 35 balls with eight fours and three sixes.
Maaz Sadaqat was equally impressive, staying unbeaten on 64 off 33 deliveries with four boundaries and four sixes. Saim Ayub then joined him to finish the job with an unbeaten 15.
Multan’s Batting Never Fully Clicked
Earlier, Multan Sultans struggled after being sent in to bat. Steve Smith fell cheaply for 13, and key names, including Sahibzada Farhan, Josh Philippe, Ashton Turner, and Arafat Minhas, failed to make major contributions.
Shan Masood was the only batter who stood firm, scoring an unbeaten 69 off 46 balls with four fours and four sixes. Mohammad Nawaz added 19, but Multan could only reach 159/9 in 20 overs.
Hyderabad Bowlers Set Up the Win
Hyderabad’s bowling attack played a major role in keeping Multan under control. Mohammad Ali, Hunain Shah, and Akif Javed picked up two wickets each, while Glenn Maxwell and Saim Ayub also chipped in with one wicket apiece.
Their collective effort ensured Multan never got the late surge needed to post a bigger total.
New Entrants One Step Closer to the Final
Hyderabad entered the playoffs after narrowly squeezing through, but they now look like a side carrying serious momentum. Their win over Multan has earned them a place in Eliminator 2, where Islamabad United await.
For Multan, the defeat ends their PSL 11 journey.
Conclusion
Hyderabad Kingsmen’s eight-wicket win over Multan Sultans was more than just a playoff victory, it was another chapter in their dream debut season. With confidence high and their key players firing, the Kingsmen now head into Eliminator 2 with a real chance to push for the PSL 11 final.
