Karachi Kings vs Multan Sultans live: Mohammad Imran’s Late Blitz Powers Multan Sultans to 207/7

KARACHI: Stand-in captain Moeen Ali’s decision to field first met a stern challenge as the Multan Sultans reached 207 for 7 in their 20 overs.

Leading the side in the absence of the injured David Warner, Moeen Ali used the toss to put the Sultans in, citing potential evening dew at the National Stadium. While the Kings' bowlers found early rhythm, they struggled to contain a high-tempo start from Multan’s openers. 

Josh Philippe provided the initial spark, striking a rapid 43 off 23 balls. His aggression in the powerplay forced Moeen Ali to rotate his bowlers early, eventually bringing himself into the attack. Moeen proved effective with the ball, finishing his four-over spell with 2 for 30, including the crucial breakthrough of Philippe. 

The middle overs saw Shan Masood take charge for the Sultans. Facing his former team, Masood played a measured but punishing innings of 46 from 25 deliveries, anchoring the visitors through the middle phase of the game. However, Khushdil Shah checked the Sultans' momentum with a career-best performance for the Kings, claiming 3 for 35 and removing Masood just as he looked to accelerate. 

The final overs shifted the momentum back to Multan. Mohammad Imran Randhawa delivered a late-innings blitz, scoring an unbeaten 26 off only 8 balls. His assault in the final two overs, particularly against Hasan Ali, who finished with expensive figures of 1 for 51, pushed the total past the 200-run mark. 

As the chase begins, the onus will be on Moeen Ali and the Kings' top order to chase down 208 and keep their playoff hopes alive in front of their home crowd.