A late batting surge by Moeen Ali and a superb four-wicket haul from Hasan Ali powered Karachi Kings to a narrow 14-run victory over Quetta Gladiators in their opening match of Pakistan Super League (PSL 11) at Gaddafi Stadium on Friday.
Chasing a competitive target of 182, Quetta Gladiators were restricted to 167/7 in their 20 overs despite a blazing start and a quickfire half-century by Shamyl Hussain.
The Gladiators’ openers, Hussain and captain Saud Shakeel, put together a rapid 79-run stand in just seven overs. Hussain led the charge with an explosive 52 off 24 balls, smashing five fours and four sixes before being dismissed by Salman Ali Agha.
However, Quetta’s momentum faltered after his departure as they lost wickets in quick succession. Shakeel contributed a steady 33, while Rilee Rossouw added 25 in a brief recovery effort.
Karachi seized control in the death overs, with Hasan Ali delivering a decisive spell. He removed Hasan Nawaz, Tom Curran, and Ahmed Daniyal in a crucial over to finish with outstanding figures of 4/27. Despite a late cameo by Ben McDermott, Quetta fell short.
Earlier, Karachi Kings posted 181/7 after being put into bat. The innings saw useful contributions throughout but no half-centuries.
Captain David Warner anchored the innings with 35, while Saad Baig scored 30. Salman Ali Agha added a quick 22 at the top.
The standout performance came from Moeen Ali, who played a crucial unbeaten knock of 48 off 29 balls, hitting four boundaries and three sixes to propel Karachi to a competitive total.
For Quetta, Ahmed Daniyal was the pick of the bowlers with 3/36, while Alzarri Joseph claimed two wickets.
Karachi Kings’ all-round performance ensured a winning start to their PSL 11 campaign in a closely contested encounter.
