PSL 11: Moeen’s late blitz, Saad’s milestone fifty lift Kings to 188

News Desk 

Karachi: A fiery late assault by Moeen Ali and a composed maiden half-century from Saad Baig powered Karachi Kings to a competitive 188/8 against Hyderabad Kingsmen in the 20th match of Pakistan Super League (PSL 11) at the National Bank Stadium on Saturday.

Opting to bowl first, Kingsmen skipper Marnus Labuschagne initially found success as Karachi stumbled early, losing Reeza Hendricks in the opening over with just two runs on the board.

A brief recovery followed through a steady partnership between Salman Ali Agha and Muhammad Waseem, who added 45 runs for the second wicket. However, the momentum shifted back in Kingsmen’s favour when Hunain Shah struck twice in quick succession, removing both set batters and reducing Karachi to 59/3.

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With the innings at a crossroads, Baig and Azam Khan steadied the ship through a crucial 69-run stand. Azam’s departure for 26, courtesy of Labuschagne, brought Moeen Ali to the crease — a move that dramatically altered the tempo of the innings.

The England all-rounder launched a brutal counterattack, smashing 44 off just 16 balls, including five towering sixes, to shift the pressure back onto the bowling side. His explosive cameo provided the late surge Karachi desperately needed.

At the other end, Baig anchored the innings with maturity, reaching his maiden PSL fifty before retiring out on 53 off 37 deliveries, laced with six boundaries.

Among the bowlers, Hunain stood out with impressive figures of 3/19, while Mohammad Ali chipped in with two wickets. Labuschagne also contributed with a wicket but couldn’t prevent Karachi from posting a challenging total.

With momentum gained in the final overs, Karachi Kings will now look to defend a target of 189 in what promises to be a competitive contest.