PSL Match Highlights | Pakistan Super League, 2025 (Match 30) – 19 May: Islamabad United vs Karachi Kings | Rampaging United Crush Karachi Kings by 79 Runs to Seal Dominant Win Ahead of Playoffs. 

IU vs KK (Match – 30) – Highlights 

In a blistering showcase of power-hitting and disciplined bowling, Islamabad United delivered a commanding performance to dismantle Karachi Kings by a colossal 79-run margin in the final group-stage encounter of the Pakistan Super League 2025 at Rawalpindi. With this emphatic victory, United have not only reaffirmed their title credentials but also marched into the playoffs with renewed confidence.

Batting first, Islamabad United piled on a monumental 251 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs, the highest total of PSL 2025. The innings was set ablaze by a sensational knock from Alex Hales, who smashed a rapid 88 off just 35 balls. The English opener was in a league of his own, dispatching six fours and eight massive sixes en route to his innings. He was ably supported by Sahibzada Farhan, who continued his stellar run with a composed 73 off 41 balls. The duo laid a foundation with a breathtaking 153-run opening partnership in just 11.3 overs.

Though United briefly stumbled with the quick dismissals of van der Dussen and Salman Agha, skipper Shadab Khan ensured the momentum wasn’t lost. The all-rounder played a blistering cameo of 42 runs off 19 balls, striking at an astonishing 221.05. Contributions from Haider Ali (19)* and Ben Dwarshuis (10)* at the death pushed United past the 250-run mark, leaving Karachi Kings reeling even before their chase began.

Karachi’s bowling attack struggled for control throughout. Khushdil Shah, Aamer Jamal, and Mir Hamza claimed a wicket apiece, but all bowlers went at an economy rate of over 10. The failure to contain Islamabad’s top order eventually proved catastrophic.

In response, the Kings crumbled under scoreboard pressure. David Warner, leading from the front, tried to inject early impetus with a brisk 43 off 28 balls, but lacked substantial support from the rest of the batting unit. Tim Seifert chipped in with a 17-ball 26, while Abbas Afridi provided late fireworks with an explosive 34 off just 13 deliveries. However, the middle order collapsed dramatically, unable to withstand United’s relentless bowling.

Shadab Khan once again led by example, this time with the ball, bagging four crucial wickets for 45 runs. His variations and tactical acumen stifled any hopes of a Kings comeback. Salman Irshad also impressed, scalping 3 for 28 in his 3.2 overs, including the key dismissals of Seifert and Afridi. Imad Wasim kept things tight with figures of 2 for 22, while Salman Agha chipped in with a wicket as well.

Karachi Kings folded for 172 in 18.2 overs, ending their group stage on a sour note. Islamabad United’s performance, both with the bat and the ball, sends a strong warning to the remaining playoff contenders. With momentum firmly on their side and key players peaking at the right time, United appear poised for a serious run at the championship title.

This comprehensive win not only boosts their net run rate but also serves as a statement of intent. As the PSL 2025 playoffs approach, Islamabad United has undoubtedly emerged as one of the teams to beat.

Islamabad United vs Karachi Kings Scoreboard

Islamabad United – 251/5 (20.0)

Karachi Kings  – 172/10 (18.2)

Result – Islamabad United won by 79 runs

Player of the match – Alex Hales

Alex Hales

IU vs KK Playing XIs

Disclaimer: These Match highlights reflect the author’s insights and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider the points discussed and form their own conclusions.