Usman’s century powers Hyderabad Kingsmen to thrilling win over Multan Sultans in PSL 11

A breathtaking century by Usman outshone a brilliant ton from Steve Smith as Hyderabad Kingsmen secured a pulsating four-wicket victory over Multan Sultans in a high-scoring Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 clash at National Bank Stadium on Wednesday.

Chasing a daunting 214-run target, the Kingsmen reached 214-6 with three balls to spare, registering their fourth consecutive win of the tournament. The chase was anchored by Usman’s explosive 101 off just 47 deliveries, featuring 10 sixes and five fours, earning him the Player of the Match award.

The Kingsmen endured an early setback when Maaz Sadaqat was dismissed for seven in the second over with only 13 runs on the board. Marnus Labuschagne attempted to stabilise the innings, adding 34 runs with Saim Ayub, who managed just five before falling to Mohammad Ismail. Ismail struck again immediately, removing Kusal Perera for a golden duck as Kingsmen slipped to 48-3.

Usman then turned the tide dramatically after walking in at number five. Despite an early missed chance by the Sultans, he launched a fierce counterattack, forging a match-defining 123-run partnership with captain Labuschagne. Both batters brought up their half-centuries during the stand.

Labuschagne was eventually dismissed for 61 off 41 balls by Peter Siddle in the 16th over. Usman, however, continued his onslaught and reached his century in style on the final ball of the 17th over bowled by Mohammad Wasim Jr..

Siddle added late drama by dismissing Glenn Maxwell for two and then removing Usman in the 18th over, leaving the Kingsmen needing 26 runs off the final two overs. Hassan Khan then played a decisive cameo, scoring a quickfire 24 to guide his side over the line.

For the Sultans, Siddle and Ismail picked up three wickets each, while the rest of the bowling attack remained ineffective under pressure.

Earlier, after being put in to bat by Kingsmen skipper Labuschagne, Multan Sultans posted an imposing 213-7 in their 20 overs. The innings was built around a dominant 132-run opening stand between Smith and Sahibzada Farhan, both of whom scored fluent half-centuries.

Farhan made 66 off 43 balls before being dismissed by Maxwell, while Smith went on to produce a sensational 106 off just 50 deliveries, smashing 12 fours and six sixes. His innings included a 28-run over against Hunain Shah, during which he brought up his maiden PSL century.

Smith was eventually dismissed by Hassan Khan in the 17th over, triggering a late slowdown in the Sultans’ innings. Shan Masood was removed shortly after by Mohammad Ali, while Josh Philippe (19) and Mohammad Imran (9 not out) added late runs.

The Kingsmen bowlers clawed back effectively in the death overs, claiming four wickets in the final two overs. Akif Javed was the standout performer with three wickets for 30 runs, while Ali, Maxwell, Hassan Khan and Hunain Shah chipped in with one wicket each.

The victory strengthens Hyderabad Kingsmen’s position in the tournament as they continue their impressive run in PSL 11.