In a nail-biting final match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024, Islamabad United emerged victorious against Multan Sultans by two wickets. The final was held at the National Stadium in Karachi. It was a gripping encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the last ball was bowled.
Batting first, Multan Sultans posted a competitive total of 159/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Usman Khan scored a crucial half-century and Iftikhar Ahmed providing a late flourish. However, it was Imad Wasim’s outstanding performance with the ball for Islamabad United that turned the game in their favor. Wasim claimed five wickets, while skipper Shadab Khan took three, restricting Multan Sultans’ innings.
In response, Islamabad United faced a tough challenge from Multan Sultans’ bowlers, with the match going down to the wire. Martin Guptill‘s solid innings of 50 runs laid the foundation for Islamabad’s chase, but it was Imad Wasim who sealed the victory with a match-winning performance, finishing the game in style.
Mike Hesson leads Islamabad to PSL Title
Mike Hesson, the former head coach of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), had joined Islamabad United as their head coach for the upcoming season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Hesson brings a wealth of coaching experience, having worked with various teams around the world. It was evident as Islamabad clinched the PSL 2024 title.
Hesson began his coaching career at the age of 22, serving as the director of coaching for Otago cricket. During his 15-year tenure, he transformed the struggling team into a competitive unit that regularly challenged for titles. Under his guidance, Otago won the one-day tournament in 2007-08, ending a 20-year trophy drought.
His international coaching career began with Kenya after their poor performance in the 2011 World Cup. Moreover, he He then took over as the head coach of the New Zealand cricket team in 2012, replacing John Wright. Hesson’s tenure with the Kiwis was highly successful, making him the longest-serving head coach of the New Zealand national team.
At RCB, Hesson played a crucial role in shaping the team’s performance, helping them achieve consistent results in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Despite not qualifying for the playoffs in IPL 2023, Hesson’s contribution to RCB’s journey over the years has been significant.
Hesson’s coaching philosophy is based on a professional, modern, and strategic approach.
Tournament Awards PSL 2024
Shadab Khan, the captain of Islamabad United, was named the Player of the Tournament. He led from the front, scoring 305 runs and taking 14 wickets. Usman Khan was awarded the Batter of the Tournament. He scored 430 runs, while Usama Mir was named the Bowler of the Tournament for taking 24 wickets. Irfan Khan of the Karachi Kings received the Emerging Player of the Tournament award.
The final match was a fitting end to an exhilarating season of the PSL. Both teams displayed exceptional skill and determination. Islamabad United’s victory was a testament to their resilience and teamwork. On the other hand, Multan Sultans’ performance showcased their fighting spirit and talent.
With the conclusion of the PSL, cricket fans are now eagerly looking forward to the Indian T20 League. IPL 2024 is set to kick off in four days’ time, promising more exciting cricketing action.
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