Shadab Khan follows up his three wickets with a fifty to lead Islamabad United to victory against Quetta Gladiators. Photo: PSL
KARACHI:
Pakistan Under-19 batter Sameer Minhas and captain Shadab Khan hit unbeaten half-centuries in a 128-run stand as Islamabad United cruised to an eight-wicket win over Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League on Thursday.
Shadab, who also claimed three wickets, was named Player of the Match for his all-round performance.
Chasing 184, Islamabad were in trouble at 86 for 2 after 11 overs before Minhas and Shadab combined to turn the match decisively in their favour.
The turning point came when Tom Curran conceded 22 runs in the 12th over, allowing the pair to seize momentum and bring the required rate under control.
Minhas, one of Pakistan’s rising youth prospects, played with freedom and intent, while Shadab provided stability before accelerating, the pair ensuring there were no further setbacks in the chase.
Earlier, Abrar Ahmed had put Quetta in command with two quick wickets, removing Devon Conway and Andries Gous.
Quetta posted 183 after an unbeaten 66 off 36 balls from Hasan Nawaz, who led a late surge that saw 74 runs added in the final five overs.
However, the total proved insufficient after a slow start, with Shadab also starring with the ball, taking 3 for 23, while Imad Wasim kept the scoring in check early on.
Islamabad completed the chase comfortably, with Minhas sealing victory with a six, capping a dominant display led by their captain and an emerging young talent.
