Babar Azam delivered a captain’s knock for the ages, smashing a stunning 103 to power Peshawar Zalmi into the PSL final with a commanding 70-run win over Islamabad United.
Putting past playoff struggles behind them, Zalmi went all-in and it paid off. A fiery start from Mohammad Haris set the tone, while Babar anchored and accelerated with rare T20 aggression. Alongside Kusal Mendis, who chipped in with a brisk 41, Zalmi piled up a daunting 221/7.
United had their moments with the ball Shadab Khan picked up three wickets but Babar’s late onslaught flipped the script. His 57-ball century, capped with a towering six, was both statement and spectacle. Aaron Hardie added the finishing touches with a punchy cameo.
Chasing 222, Islamabad came out swinging. Sameer Minhas led the early charge with a rapid 44, but the momentum didn’t last. Hardie turned the game on its head with a game-breaking spell, while Sufiyan Muqeem tightened the screws.
From 77/1, United collapsed dramatically losing six wickets in quick succession as Zalmi’s bowlers ripped through the middle order. The chase fizzled out at 151, sending Zalmi cruising into their first final since 2019.
With form, firepower, and confidence on their side, Peshawar Zalmi now head to the final as the team to beat.
A dominant all-round performance from Peshawar Zalmi, led from the front by skipper Babar Azam’s brilliant century, powers them into the HBL PSL 11 final 🥳#HBLPSL11 | #NewEra | #PZvIU pic.twitter.com/uj2Cizc36v
— CricNetworks (@cricnetworks) April 28, 2026
