Minhas, Shadab star as Islamabad United secure first win in PSL 11

LAHORE: A sensational unbeaten partnership between Sameer Minhas and captain Shadab Khan powered Islamabad United to a comprehensive eight-wicket victory over Quetta Gladiators in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 at the Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday.

Chasing a challenging 184-run target, United made light work of the total, reaching the finish line in the 19th over with eight wickets in hand, courtesy of a dominant batting display led by their in-form duo.

The innings began on a positive note as Devon Conway and Sameer Minhas put together a brisk 44-run opening stand, with the latter taking the aggressive route.

However, Abrar Ahmed struck twice in quick succession to remove Conway (18) and Andries Gous (2), leaving United at 61-2 inside seven overs.

From there on, it was all about Minhas and Shadab, who combined to produce a match-winning, unbeaten 128-run partnership. The pair blended composure with calculated aggression, ensuring there were no further hiccups in the chase.

Minhas led the charge with a superb 82 not out off 48 deliveries, striking eight fours and three sixes, while Shadab complemented him with an equally impressive unbeaten 69 off 39 balls, decorated with five fours and four sixes.

Earlier, Quetta Gladiators posted a competitive 183-5 after opting to bat first, thanks to strong contributions from both their top and middle order.

Openers Shamyl Hussain and skipper Saud Shakeel provided a solid platform with a 50-run stand before Salman Irshad dismissed Hussain for 21.

Shadab then made an impact with the ball, removing Shakeel for a brisk 42, followed by quick strikes that left the Gladiators reeling at 93-5. Imad Wasim also chipped in with a crucial wicket during the middle overs.

A late recovery was orchestrated by Hassan Nawaz and Tom Curran, who stitched together an unbeaten 90-run partnership. Nawaz remained not out on a fluent 64 off 35 balls, while Curran added a steady 29 to push the total to 183-5.

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