Multan Sultans finally broke their losing streak in the HBL Pakistan Super League with a commanding 33-run win over Lahore Qalandars at the Multan Cricket Stadium ā their first win in four games this season.
The home crowd was treated to fireworks from Yasir Khan, who smashed a blistering 87 off 44 balls, and Ubaid Shah, whose pace and precision rattled Lahoreās top and middle order with three vital wickets.
Batting first, Multan got off to a flying start with openers Yasir and captain Mohammad Rizwan setting the tone. Yasir, playing his first match of the season, announced his arrival by flicking Shaheen Afridi for a six early on and went on to dominate the powerplay. His assault on Zaman Khan and Haris Rauf helped Multan race to 79 without loss in the first six overs. Yasir reached his half-century in just 28 balls and went on to punish the Qalandars with six fours and six massive sixes.
Rizwan played a handy cameo (32 off 17) before falling to Asif Afridi. After his departure, Yasir continued the attack alongside Usman Khan, who chipped in with a brisk 39 off 24. Though Multan slowed down slightly in the middle overs, Iftikhar Ahmedās explosive finish ensured they posted a formidable 228-5. His late blitz included 50 runs from the last four overs, punishing both Haris and Shaheen.
Chasing 229, Lahore never found their rhythm. Ubaid Shah struck early, dismissing danger man Fakhar Zaman with a well-disguised slower ball. He then clean bowled Daryl Mitchell and removed Sam Billings, who had started a mini-counterattack with two towering sixes. Billings’ dismissal in the 15th over virtually ended Lahoreās hopes.
Though Sikandar Raza fought back with a valiant 50 off 27 balls, his late fireworks came too late. The leg-spin of Usama Mir also played a pivotal role, taking out Shaheen Afridi and keeping the pressure tight.
Lahore eventually finished on 195-9, falling short by 33 runs. Their top-order collapse, inability to rotate strike in the middle overs, and poor death-over bowling were key reasons for the loss.
The victory was not just crucial for the points table but also a big morale booster for the Sultans, who now seem poised to turn their season around. Yasirās powerful batting display and Ubaidās clinical spell have added fresh energy to the squad ā especially in front of their home fans.
