Islamabad United defeated the Multan Sultans in a nail-biting final at Karachi’s National Stadium, capping off an exciting ninth season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Islamabad prevailed by a razor-thin margin of two wickets in the match, which went right down to the wire.
But the significance of Islamabad’s victory went beyond a simple sporting achievement. During their victory lap, players including Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim, and Hunain Shah were seen touchingly raising the Palestinian flag. This heartfelt act demonstrated Islamabad United’s solidarity for the Palestinian cause against the backdrop of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
What an outstanding victory by Islamabad United, and what a commendable gesture to show solidarity with the people of Palestine! The champions of PSL9 paraded around the ground with Palestinian flags, winning hearts ❤️ 🇵🇸 pic.twitter.com/mYxCdO8dPr
— Naimat Khan (@NKMalazai) March 18, 2024
The last few seconds of the game were really thrilling. With just one run needed to win, Hunain Shah, the last man, showed steely nerves by finding the space at point and securing the match with a boundary off the last delivery. The team’s tenacity and resolve were demonstrated by the festivities that followed the Islamabad camp.
Have tears in my eyes while watching this🥹🥲 Sooo Sooo proud of Shadab and his team🙏🔥💕#PSLFinal pic.twitter.com/gAAY9efOIU
— Jatti (@lifesucksoff) March 18, 2024
This victory reinforced Islamabad United’s position as the most successful team in the league’s history and spread their message of unity around the world, in addition to securing their third PSL title.
I felt that with the bat, Shadab, I could make better use of my time the more I had.
Shadab Khan offered his observations following the match. He stated that he is improving his bowling technique and feels he might make greater use of his batting time if he is positioned higher in the order. Along with expressing gratitude for the club owners’ support, Shadab emphasized the significance of taking home the trophy.
I thought I could use my time with the bat more effectively the more time I had. I lack the power game in positions 6-7. tried to resolve my bowling-related technological problems. The improvements will arrive, but that’s a lengthy process. It’s difficult for me to watch the game. Although it’s difficult to watch from the outside, I don’t feel under pressure in the center.
I don’t sit with batters who are expected to walk in next because I make it difficult for folks next to me as well. I want to thank the owners who have supported me. We didn’t make it to the finals during my five years as captain, but they still supported me. There are many reasons, in my opinion, why this trophy is really significant to us,” Shadab was cited by Cricbuzz.