Sahibzada Farhan’s brilliant unbeaten century powered Multan Sultans to a remarkable victory over Hyderabad Kingsmen in the eighth match of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 at Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday.
Chasing a daunting 226-run target, the 2021 champions reached 227/4 with eight balls to spare, thanks to Farhan’s stellar 106 off 57 balls, featuring eight sixes and seven fours.
Farhan’s innings was well-supported by opening partner Steve Smith, who scored 46, and vice-captain Shan Masood with 29, before Farhan stitched an unbeaten 37-run partnership with Arafat Minhas, who contributed a quick 26 off 11 deliveries.
Saim Ayub was the pick of the Kingsmen bowlers, claiming two wickets for 43 runs, while Maheesh Theekshana and Hassan Khan took one each. Farhan was named Player of the Match for his match-winning performance.
Hyderabad Kingsmen, making their PSL debut, had set a challenging total of 225/5 after opting to bat first. Opener Saim Ayub and Maaz gave the team a flying start with a 59-run opening stand in just five overs.
Ayub scored 27 off 20 balls before being caught and bowled by Peter Siddle, while Maaz made 62 off 26 balls, remaining the top scorer for his side.
Kingsmen’s middle order faltered briefly as Usman Khan fell, leaving the team at 127/4 in 11.2 overs. Experienced Sharjeel Khan then anchored the innings with a quick 51 not out off 26 balls, supported by Syed Saad Ali (23) and Muhammad Irfan Khan (22), to take Kingsmen to a competitive total.
Mohammad Wasim Jr was the leading bowler for the Sultans, picking up two wickets for 37 runs, while Nawaz, Siddle, and captain Ashton Turner claimed one wicket each.
Farhan’s innings, combining power-hitting with composure, proved decisive in securing a high-scoring thriller for Multan Sultans.
