By Ehsan Qureshi
(Pakistan News & Features Services)
The enigmatic Usman Khan struck a scintillating century, while Marnus Labuschagne contributed a fluent 61, as Hyderabad Kingsmen pulled off an exciting four-wicket victory over Multan Sultans in the 33rd match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season-11 at the National Stadium, Karachi, on April 22.
Usman rode his luck as he was initially caught behind for naught off Muhammad Ismail, but Multan failed to review. He went on to become the hero, smashing a dominant 101 off 47 balls, including ten towering sixes and five fours. It was his record fourth ton in the PSL.
In a tense finish, Hassan Khan chipped in with an unbeaten 24 off just six balls, featuring three sixes and a four, as Hyderabad chased down the target with three balls to spare.
Hyderabad reached the target of 214 for the loss of six wickets in 19.3 overs with Peter Siddle (3-39) and Muhammad Ismail (3-42) being the successful bowlers for Multan.
Usman and Labuschagne added 123 runs off just 64 balls for the fourth wicket after Hyderabad had slumped to 43 for three inside the powerplay.
Opening the innings alongside Sahibzada Farhan, the vastly experienced Smith powered Multan to a fiery start of 132 runs off just 75 balls.
Pakistan’s premier opener Sahibzada Farhan lent him admirable support, scoring 66 off 43 balls, laced with four fours and five sixes.
Smith, known and feared the world over for his ability of changing gears at will, also plundered 28 runs in one over from pacer Kunain Shah, striking 4, 4, 6, 4, 6, 4.
Multan had finished with an impressive total of 213 for seven in the 20 despite Akif Javed picking up three wickets in quick succession.
