A sublime century from Babar Azam once again inspired Peshawar Zalmi, as they stormed into the HBL PSL 2026 final with a commanding 70-run win over Islamabad United in Karachi.
Batting first in the Qualifier at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi on Tuesday night, Zalmi piled up a formidable 221/7, built around Babar’s masterful 103 off 59 deliveries. The skipper anchored the innings with control and authority, striking 12 fours and four sixes, and continuing his exceptional run of form in PSL 2026, where he has been among the leading run-scorers.
How did Peshawar Zalmi qualify for the PSL 2026 final?
Zalmi’s qualification was powered by Babar’s outstanding century, which laid the foundation for their imposing total. After opting to bat, they capitalised on a strong start to post 221/7, putting Islamabad United under immediate pressure.
In response, United were bowled out for 151 in 18.4 overs, handing Zalmi a convincing 70-run victory and a place in the final. Now the Babar Azam-led side will face the winner of the Eliminator 2 in the final at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on May 3.
Babar Azam leads from the front again
Leading from the front, Babar produced a composed yet dominant knock that reinforced his status as one of the tournament’s standout batters. His innings included a 35-run opening stand with Mohammad Haris, followed by a crucial 84-run partnership with Kusal Mendis that stabilised the middle overs.
He eventually brought up his fourth PSL century before falling shortly after, having once again anchored Zalmi’s batting effort in a high-pressure knockout match.
How did Islamabad United’s chase unfold?
Chasing 222, Islamabad United began positively with Devon Conway and Sameer Minhas adding 58 for the opening wicket. Minhas top-scored with a quick 44 off 23 balls, but the innings unravelled after a series of quick breakthroughs.
Despite a brief resistance from Imad Wasim (22), United lost momentum as Zalmi’s bowling attack tightened its grip. Aaron Hardie led the charge with 3/24, while Sufiyan Muqeem and Mohammad Basit picked up two wickets each to dismantle the chase.
What were the key moments of the match?
Zalmi’s explosive opening stand set the tone early, while Babar’s century provided the backbone of their innings. Although Shadab Khan’s three-wicket spell briefly slowed Zalmi down, the platform had already been set.
In reply, Islamabad’s collapse after a promising start proved decisive, as Zalmi’s disciplined bowling ensured they never recovered. The result confirmed Zalmi as the first team to reach the PSL 2026 final.
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