Debutants Rawalpindi Pindiz Stifle Babar’s Zalmi in High-Stakes Pindiz vs Zalmi Live Chase

At the 15-over mark, the mountain remains steep for Peshawar Zalmi, who sit at 143/4 in pursuit of the Rawalpindi Pindiz’s towering 214. 

Despite a blistering start that threatened to derail the debutants’ maiden outing, the Pindiz bowling unit staged a disciplined mid-innings fightback to seize control at the Gaddafi Stadium.

The Yellow Storm’s chase was ignited by a trademark 78-run opening salvo between Babar Azam (39) and Mohammad Haris (47). The duo dismantled the pace attack early, finding the ropes with surgical precision. However, the introduction of spin proved to be the turning point. Asif Afridi trapped Babar plumb in front, while Amad Butt accounted for the dangerous Haris just short of his half-century.

The middle overs saw the run rate climb as Rawalpindi’s spinners, led by Rishad Hossain, choked the scoring. Kusal Mendis (31) provided a brief flicker of hope with two massive sixes before holing out, leaving Zalmi needing a monumental 72 runs from the final 30 deliveries.

With Michael Bracewell the last established batter at the crease, the Pindiz are five overs away from a historic opening victory.