Islamabad United vs RawalPindiz Live: United Collapses for 137

KARACHI: In a disciplined display of tactical bowling, the Rawalpindiz attack systematically dismantled the Islamabad United batting lineup, restricting the three-time champions to 137 all out. Winning the toss and opting to bowl first on a surface that offered assistance to both pace and spin, the Pindiz leadership saw their decision vindicated almost immediately.

The innings began with uncharacteristic caution as openers Devon Conway and Sameer Minhas struggled to find their timing against the new ball. The breakthrough came in the fifth over when veteran seamer Mohammad Amir induced a false stroke from Minhas, dismissing him for a sluggish 6 off 11 balls. 

United’s troubles deepened as the powerplay concluded; Naseem Shah returned from injury with a venomous spell, removing Mohammad Faiq for 5 to leave Islamabad reeling at 29-2.

Middle-Order Collapse

The introduction of spin further stifled the run rate. Saad Masood made an instant impact by dismissing captain Shadab Khan for just 1, who holed out to backward point after failing to keep a cut shot down. Devon Conway provided the only significant resistance, anchoring one end with a hard-fought 40 off 33 balls before falling to Daryl Mitchell just as he looked to accelerate.

Late Surge Falls Short

A late cameo from Chris Green, who struck 29 off 16 deliveries including two sixes, briefly threatened to push the total toward the 150-mark. However, Asif Afridi (1/17) and Mohammad Amir (2/21) closed the gates in the death overs, ensuring no further damage was done.

Islamabad United Batting	Runs (Balls)	Rawalpindiz Bowling	Figures
Devon Conway	40 (33)	Mohammad Amir	2/21 (4.0)
Chris Green	29 (16)	Saad Masood	2/27 (4.0)
Mark Chapman	23 (18)	Naseem Shah	1/9 (2.0)

The Rawalpindiz now require 138 runs to secure a vital victory and break their recent losing streak. With Mohammad Rizwan and Abdullah Fazal waiting in the dugout, the chase promises to be a thrilling conclusion to this Karachi leg of the tournament.