Lahore, (Sports Reporter) Fast bowler Hunain Shah held his nerve in a dramatic final over to guide Hyderabad Kingsmen to a thrilling two-run victory over Islamabad United in Eliminator 2 of the HBL Pakistan Super League 11 at Gaddafi Stadium on Friday night.
Defending 186-5, Hunain conceded just three runs in the last over against the dangerous pair of Faheem Ashraf and Chris Green, sealing a memorable win. The right-arm pacer finished with figures of 2-37, taking his tally to 16 wickets in the tournament and underlining his impact in the knockout stages.
Earlier, Usman Khan led the batting effort with a fluent unbeaten 61, while Kusal Perera contributed an aggressive 37 not out. The pair stitched a crucial 101-run partnership to power Kingsmen to a strong total. Valuable knocks from Marnus Labuschagne (39) and Saim Ayub (38) further strengthened the innings.
Mark Chapman top-scored with 43, while Haider Ali (31) and Devon Conway (30) kept Islamabad in the hunt. Despite a late charge, United fell agonisingly short as Hunain’s composure under pressure proved the difference.
Hyderabad Kingsmen will now face Peshawar Zalmi in the HBL PSL 11 final on Sunday at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
