Analysts during the 24 News programme, PSL Hangama, heaped praise on Islamabad United for thrashing Peshawar Zalmi by six wickets in the 12th match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Former cricketers stressed Peshawar Zalmi need to improve their middle order. According to them, Peshawar Zalmi’s bowling side too failed to deliver.

Islamabad United captain Shadab Khan won the toss and invited Babar Azam-led Peshawar Zalmi to bat. Zalmi were off to a flying start as Muhammad Haris and Babar piled 50 runs n just 26 deliveries. The 76-run opening partnership ended after Haris was out. The next man in, Saim Ayub could not stay long as he was bowled in the very next over by Mubasir Khan. He scored three runs off three balls.

Ex-pacer Muhammad Asif said Peshawar Zalmi's middle order has failed to deliver. Babar continued to hold one end but the wickets continued to fall from the other end.

Chasing a target of 157 runs, United never looked in a point of bother thanks to a whirlwind innings from Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz who made an entertaining 31-ball 62. United also piled up 80 runs for one wicket in the first powerplay, the most in the PSL.

Former national cricketer Muhammad Yusuf said Zalmi should have posted a big target. Islamabad United performed very well. Their batting and bowling were good.

The analysts heaped praise on Hasan Ali for a brilliant comeback. Hasan Ali proved his mettle after a long time and became Man of the Match, they added.

He bowled a superb double-wicket 10th over removing Tom Kohler-Cadmore (1 off 4) and Rovman Powell (0-2). He also removed James Neesham (6 off 8 balls) in the 12th over. They described Shadab’s captaincy as excellent. 

Muhammad Asif said Peshawar should improve the middle order and questioned how long they have to depend on the openers. They must improve their bowling side to break the partnerships, he said, adding that winning a match without bringing in improvement will be a far cry.