Karachi Kings stormed into the playoffs of PSL 2025 with a high-octane win over Peshawar Zalmi, defending a mammoth 237-run total in Rawalpindi. David Warner’s explosive 86 and James Vince’s 72 powered the Kings to a commanding 23-run victory, overshadowing Babar Azam’s brilliant 94 off 49 balls.
Powerful Partnership Sets the Stage
After losing Ben McDermott on the first ball, Karachi Kings rebounded with a 162-run stand between Warner and Vince. Warner dominated the Zalmi bowlers, targeting every loose delivery with precision. Despite Luke Wood’s impressive 2 for 19, the rest of Zalmi’s attack crumbled. The final two overs were especially brutal—Khushdil Shah (43* off 15) and Mohammad Nabi punished wayward bowling to add 52 runs, taking the total to a daunting 237 for 4.
Zalmi’s Strong Start Falls Short
Zalmi began their chase aggressively, led by Babar Azam and Saim Ayub. They reached 59 in the powerplay, staying ahead of Kings’ run rate. Babar showcased his full range, striking boundaries with ease and pushing his side forward. However, Saim fell just before his half-century, and Tom Kohler-Cadmore’s sluggish 20 off 15 balls added pressure.
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Turning Point and Collapse
The chase unraveled in the final overs. Abbas Afridi dismissed Ayub and later Max Bryant, while Mir Hamza sent Kohler-Cadmore back. Babar, trying to retain strike, was run out on 94 in a heartbreaking moment. Zalmi’s hopes sank as they lost three wickets in 11 balls.
Final Push Not Enough
Despite a late flourish that added 28 runs in the last two overs, Zalmi couldn’t overcome the scoreboard pressure. The Kings sealed a spot in the playoffs, while Zalmi now face a must-win match against Lahore Qalandars on Sunday.
Karachi’s strong batting display, backed by disciplined death bowling, proved too much. Warner, Vince, and Khushdil’s efforts ensured a dramatic return to PSL action after the mid-season break.
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