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PSL 2026: Kusal Mendis and Farhan Yousaf Power Peshawar Zalmi to Emphatic Victory Over Karachi Kings

PSL 2026: Kusal Mendis and Farhan Yousaf Power Peshawar Zalmi to Emphatic Victory Over Karachi Kings

LAHORE – Peshawar Zalmi continued their dominant run in the 2026 Pakistan Super League (PSL), securing a clinical 7-wicket victory over Karachi Kings at the Gaddafi Stadium. A record-breaking performance from Kusal Mendis and a steady knock from Farhan Yousaf ensured Zalmi chased down a competitive target with 7 balls to spare.

Jason Roy’s Lone Charge for Karachi

After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Karachi Kings posted a respectable 182/9 in their 20 overs. The innings was almost entirely built around opener Jason Roy, who smashed a brilliant 85 off 51 balls, including 11 boundaries and 2 sixes.

However, Roy lacked significant support from the other end. While Azam Khan provided a quick-fire 35 off 19 balls, the rest of the star-studded lineup—including David Warner (11) and Reeza Hendricks (13)—failed to capitalize. Young Omani sensation Ali Raza was the star with the ball for Peshawar, dismantling the lower order to finish with impressive figures of 4/41.
 
Mendis and Yousaf Masterclass

Peshawar Zalmi’s chase began with the loss of James Vince (16) and captain Babar Azam (25), but the momentum never shifted. Kusal Mendis played a sensational, unbeaten innings of 80 off 43 balls*, anchoring the chase with precision. In the process, Mendis set a new record for the most runs by an overseas batter in a single PSL edition, surpassing the 490-run mark.

Mendis was ably supported by Farhan Yousaf, who played a composed innings of 58 off 36 balls*. The pair’s unbeaten partnership ensured Zalmi reached 186/3 in 18.5 overs, marking their 8th win in 9 games.
 
Contrasting Fortunes

The result highlights the vastly different trajectories of the two teams this season. Peshawar Zalmi sits comfortably at the top of the table, having lost only once. In contrast, Karachi Kings have now suffered five consecutive defeats, leaving their playoff hopes hanging by a thread.

Kusal Mendis was named Player of the Match for his record-breaking half-century.

Match Summary:
  • Karachi Kings: 182/9 (20 overs) | Jason Roy 85, Azam Khan 35; Ali Raza 4/41.

  • Peshawar Zalmi: 186/3 (18.5 overs) | Kusal Mendis 80*, Farhan Yousaf 58*; Abbas Afridi 1/46.

  • Result: Peshawar Zalmi won by 7 wickets.

  • Player of the Match: Kusal Mendis.

     

     

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