Rizwan Determined Despite Crushing Defeat

LAHORE: Multan Sultans’ skipper, Mohammad Rizwan, expressed optimism despite his team’s significant 10-wicket loss to Quetta Gladiators in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 held at Gaddafi Stadium on Tuesday.

During the post-match press briefing, Rizwan discussed his team’s performance, acknowledging the challenging nature of the pitch but insisting it was manageable.

Pitch Conditions

“I don’t believe the pitch was extremely poor; it presented challenges, but it was certainly a surface suitable for a score of 150-160. Regrettably, we made some imprudent shot selections. Credit goes to their bowlers for maintaining accurate lengths and executing their skills effectively,” Rizwan commented.

Still Hopeful

Despite the substantial defeat, the wicketkeeper batsman showed resilience.

“I still maintain that if we execute good cricket, we can maximize our chances. We are still in contention, although I personally dislike relying on other teams for qualification,” he affirmed.

Quetta Gladiators clinched their fourth victory in the current competition with a commanding win against Multan Sultans in the 18th match of PSL 10.

The Gladiators efficiently chased a modest target of 90 runs, spearheaded by openers Finn Allen and Saud Shakeel.

Allen displayed remarkable aggression, targeting David Willey in the second over with two sixes and a four, accumulating 17 runs and setting the pace for a dominant chase.

Alongside Shakeel, who contributed valuable boundaries, the Gladiators swiftly advanced to 38-0 within just four overs and soon after achieved their 50-run partnership.

By the conclusion of the powerplay, Quetta had surged to 74-0, highlighting their dominance. The Gladiators crossed the finishing line with 79 balls remaining, as Allen sealed the victory with a six off Usama Mir.

Allen remained undefeated on 45 from 21 deliveries, while Shakeel contributed 42* from 20 balls.

Earlier, Multan Sultans encountered a disastrous beginning after electing to bat first. Opener Yasir Khan was dismissed for a mere five runs by Khurram Shahzad, followed by Usman Khan with a duck, leaving the Sultans struggling at 7-2.

Khurram continued his impactful spell, dismissing Kamran Ghulam (3) and Curtis Campher (4) in the same over, reducing Multan to 20-4 within the initial four overs.

Captain Mohammad Rizwan and Iftikhar Ahmed attempted to provide stability to the innings, but their endeavors proved futile.

Faheem Ashraf dismissed Iftikhar for just six runs and then removed Michael Bracewell for a duck, as Multan declined to 43-6.

Rizwan, the only player offering resistance, scored 44 runs in a brave effort, but was the final wicket to fall, bowled by Ubaid Shah, as Multan were all out for 89 in 17 overs.