Karachi: Rawalpindi registered their first victory of the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) season, defeating Islamabad United on Thursday in what was an eventful match filled with on-field drama. This win came after nine games for Rawalpindi, marking a much-needed turnaround in their campaign.
The notable incident occurred during the 17th over when Rawalpindi bowler Mohammad Amir dismissed Faheem Ashraf, leading to a heated exchange between the two. Ashraf attempted to ramp the left-arm fast bowler but ended up edging the ball to wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan. Amir celebrated the dismissal passionately and provided Ashraf with a fiery send-off. In response, Ashraf pointed his bat toward Amir and retaliated verbally, prompting intervention from both the umpires and Rawalpindi players to diffuse the situation.
In terms of the match progress, Rawalpindi won the toss and elected to bowl first, limiting Islamabad United to just 137 runs in their allotted 20 overs. Six out of seven Rawalpindi bowlers claimed at least one wicket, with Amir shining as the team’s standout performer, returning figures of 2/21 in four overs. Dian Forrester also contributed effectively, taking two wickets in the only over he bowled.
While Rawalpindi’s innings began on a shaky note with opener Abdullah Fazal being dismissed on the first ball, captain Mohammad Rizwan steadied the ship. He formed a crucial partnership of 78 runs for the second wicket with Kamran Ghulam before he was dismissed in the 13th over, scoring 45 runs from 38 balls. Ghulam supported the innings well, adding 42 runs off 30 balls. Daryl Mitchell also played a significant role in the chase, finishing unbeaten on 32 runs off 25 balls.
Rawalpindi crossed the finish line in the 19th over, winning by six wickets, although they remain at the bottom of the PSL 2026 points table despite the victory.
