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PSL: Islamabad edge out the Sultans

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Islamabad United overwhelmed Multan Sultans on Saturday night in a low-scoring game at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium.

Both franchises have qualified for the PSL 2021 playoffs.

Islamabad finished the first round with 16 points as they managed to win eight out of 10 matches.

The Shadab Khan-led troops chased the 150-run target with two balls and four wickets in hand.

While Multan put up another loss on their record, it is not going to take away their playoff berth.

They have 10 points in hand, just like the eliminated Lahore Qalandars, but having the best net run rate in the league (+1.050) has got them in the second spot.

The Domino effect

To think that the Sultans were cruising at 93/0 at one point and finished 149 all out is mind-boggling.

This season has not got a lot of batting collapses but is surely something to take note of for skip Mohammad Rizwan.

Had they gone down like that in a crucial game, the result would have hurt them.

Another MOTM performance from Wasim

United pacer Mohammad Wasim Jr picked up his best bowling figures in the PSL 2021.

His 4-31 was what caused the domino effect in the Multan batting in the first place.

His wickets were Johnson Charles, Sohail Khan, Mohammad Umar and Blessing Muzarabani.

Wasim’s spell crippled the Sultans batting.

Once he began picking important scalps in his spells, other pacers from the Multan cartel had huge help in mounting pressure on the Rizwan-led unit.

Islamabad United 150 for 6 (Shadab 35, Dahani 2-21, Qadir 2-22) beat Multan Sultans 149 all out (Masood 59, Wasim 4-31) by four wickets.

Preview: Islamabad United vs Multan Sultans

Multan Sultans have a chance to avenge their last loss against Islamabad United on Monday when the two sides will meet in the first playoff of the PSL 2021.

Probable Player of the Match – Mohammad Rizwan

Apart from being a strategically aware skipper, Muhammad Rizwan has been exceptional with the bat.

He is currently the second-highest run-getter in the tournament (470) and might dethrone Babar Azam at the top if he resumes where he left off in the Pakistan leg.

The Sultans opener is likely to go ballistic against United in the playoff, but he needs to take care of his strike rate.

Ever since the league was moved to the UAE, Rizwan has not been able to emulate the knocks he has played on Karachi and Lahore’s tracks.

He has been seemingly slow and has found it hard to cream the ball around the park at will.

Match prediction

Islamabad United have won both games they played against Multan Sultans in the first round of the league.

They clinched the February contest by three wickets in the Pakistan leg and routed the Sultans on Saturday night by four wickets.

They looked dominant, calculated and confident coming off consecutive victories.

The only two-time PSL champions are likely to thump Multans to make it 3-0 and secure a berth in the final.

The Sultans have been brilliant this season, but may not be strong enough to outplay Shadab Khan’s side.

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Virat Kohli and Steve Smith Predicted to Bounce Back by Shastri

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Ravi Shastri predicts Virat Kohli and Steve Smith will reclaim form, praising their resilience amid recent performance dips.

Ravi Shastri has predicted that Virat Kohli and Steve Smith will soon reclaim their dominant form in cricket. Speaking about the performances of the current Fab Four, Shastri acknowledged that Kohli and Smith have recently struggled compared to Kane Williamson and Joe Root.

Shastri believes Virat Kohli and Smith, despite their dips, remain formidable players. He highlighted their experience, dedication, and ability to perform under pressure as key factors in their potential resurgence.

The former Indian coach emphasized the cyclical nature of sports, where even the best players face challenges. He expressed confidence in Kohli’s and Smith’s capacity to learn from setbacks and adapt their game accordingly.

Kohli’s recent performances have lacked consistency, raising questions about his form. Similarly, Smith has encountered difficulties in maintaining his usual high standards. Shastri stressed that such phases are natural for elite athletes and often lead to greater determination.

Williamson and Root currently lead the Fab Four in terms of performance and consistency. Shastri praised their recent contributions but reminded fans not to underestimate Kohli and Smith.

Shastri’s analysis underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability in cricket. He pointed out that both players have a history of overcoming challenges, making their eventual comeback more likely.

Fans and experts continue to debate the dynamics of the Fab Four, with each player’s journey offering unique lessons. Kohli and Smith’s ability to bounce back will be closely watched in the coming months.

This discussion highlights the ever-evolving nature of cricket, where even legends face tough phases. Shastri’s optimism offers hope for fans eagerly anticipating Kohli’s and Smith’s return to peak form.

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Ravichandran Ashwin Reveals Travis Head’s Tactics Against Bumrah

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Ravi Ashwin discusses Travis Head’s clever tactics against Jasprit Bumrah, highlighting his strategic adjustments and calculated approach.

Ravi Ashwin has unveiled Travis Head’s strategic approach to countering Jasprit Bumrah and India’s bowling attack. During a recent discussion, Ashwin analyzed Head’s clever ploys on the field, which played a pivotal role in his performance.

According to Ravi Ashwin, Head adjusted his batting stance to disrupt Bumrah’s bowling rhythm. This minor but effective tweak allowed Head to execute his shots more confidently. Ashwin emphasized that such tactical adjustments reflect Head’s understanding of the game.

Head’s strategy involved standing outside the crease to negate Bumrah’s swing and reduce his effectiveness. This move put pressure on the Indian bowlers, forcing them to alter their lengths. Ashwin acknowledged the intelligence behind this approach, calling it a calculated risk.

Ashwin also highlighted Head’s ability to target specific bowlers, capitalizing on their weaknesses. By playing aggressively, Head shifted the momentum in his team’s favor. This strategy demonstrated his adaptability and composure under pressure.

India’s bowling unit struggled to contain Head’s counterattacking style. His approach exposed gaps in India’s plans, prompting them to reassess their strategies. Ashwin noted that such performances underscore the importance of adaptability in international cricket.

The revelation sheds light on how top players study and exploit their opponents. It also emphasizes the need for constant evolution in cricket tactics. Ashwin’s insights provide valuable lessons for players and fans, highlighting the game’s strategic depth.

Ashwin’s observations will likely influence their bowling strategies as India prepares for future matches. Understanding and countering such tactics can help teams improve their performance against aggressive players like Head.

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BIG NEWS

Nepal Premier League Becomes a Watershed Moment for Nepali Cricket

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The NPL marks a milestone for Nepali cricket, bringing new opportunities and excitement to the sport!

The NPL has become a watershed moment for Nepali cricket, elevating the sport to new heights. With its success, the league has brought national and international attention to Nepali cricket, attracting a broader fan base and better sponsorships.

This landmark event showcases the immense talent present in Nepal and provides a platform for local players to shine. The league has paved the way for a new generation of cricketers to gain recognition and advance their careers in the sport.

The NPL has also given Nepali cricket more global exposure. International players joining the league help raise the level of competition, further inspiring the local players. The league’s popularity continues to grow as it evolves and promises to be a cornerstone of Nepali cricket in the years to come.

As the league progresses, it is expected to inspire future stars and increase the overall development of cricket in Nepal. Fans eagerly follow every match, enjoying the thrilling action and supporting their favorite players and teams.

In conclusion, the Nepal Premier League has transformed Nepali cricket, setting the stage for future growth. This momentous development will surely lead to even greater success for Nepali cricket on the international stage.

The NPL has also sparked interest in domestic leagues across emerging cricket nations. It serves as a model for other countries to develop their cricketing infrastructure and provide young talent. As the NPL continues to grow, it is expected to play a vital role in shaping the future of Nepali cricket.

Fans have embraced the tournament, creating a sense of national pride. The NPL’s rise reflects the growing global interest in domestic cricket leagues and their role in nurturing future talent. It’s a significant milestone for Nepali cricket, ensuring that the sport will continue to evolve in the coming years.

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