Defending champions Islamabad United opened their campaign in the second edition of Pakistan Super League (PSL 2017) with a thrilling seven-wicket win with two ball to spare against Peshawar Zalmi at the Dubai International Stadium on Thursday night.
Chasing a rain reduced target of 173 in 18 overs, Islamabad rode on half centuries by Brad Haddin (73) and Dwayne Smith (55) to make 175 for 4 in 17.4 overs with Shane Watson (13 not out) smashing the winning boundary to the roars of an appreciative crowd which were glued to the action even as it continued well past midnight, said a message received here.
Haddin was adjudged man of the match for his 39-ball 73 which was laced with eight boundaries and three sixes.
"We were trying and getting quick runs and trying to hurt them. They started to bowl smart but we stuck to our plan and it worked for us," said Smith who was pleased with the conditions.
A sudden shower interrupted play with Islamabad 79-1 after 9.4 overs bringing the D/L method into play.
A belligerent half century by former Pakistan international Kamran Akmal (88) helped Peshawar Zalmi make 190 for nine after being put into bat.
The PSL 2017 opening match got off to a sensational start when Islamabad United's giant fast bowler Mohammed Irfan snared Peshawar Zalmi opener Mohammed Hafeez whose perfect edge was pouched at second slip by Sharjeel Khan for a first-ball duck.
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