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| Josh Philippe and Sahibzada Farhan shared a 110-run stand |
There’s something special brewing in this Pakistan Super League 2026 season—and right now, it’s wearing the colors of the Multan Sultans.
On a batting-friendly night in Lahore, the Sultans didn’t just win—they made a statement. Chasing 183 against Rawalpindiz, they turned what could have been a tricky pursuit into a near walk in the park, sealing a dominant seven-wicket victory with almost four overs to spare.
Akram Spins the Game Early
Before the fireworks with the bat, it was young left-arm wrist-spinner Faisal Akram who quietly tilted the game in Multan’s favor.
Rawalpindiz had started decently, with contributions from their middle order hinting at a competitive total. But Akram’s introduction changed everything. Mixing his pace and variations cleverly, he dismantled the batting lineup at crucial moments, finishing with a brilliant four-wicket haul.
Just when Rawalpindiz looked set to accelerate, Akram struck—breaking partnerships, slowing the run rate, and forcing mistakes. The innings lost momentum, crawling through the middle overs when it mattered most.
Despite a late push from Sam Billings, who fought his way to an unbeaten 56, Rawalpindiz could only manage 182—a total that always felt slightly under par.
Farhan & Philippe Turn Chase into a Statement
If there were any doubts about the chase, Sahibzada Farhan erased them in style.
Continuing his red-hot form, Farhan came out with intent and never looked back. His 68 off just 38 balls was packed with confidence, clean hitting, and fearless stroke play. And when he decided to take on Mohammad Amir, smashing back-to-back sixes, the tone of the chase was set.
At the other end, Josh Philippe played the perfect partner. Calm yet aggressive, he matched Farhan shot for shot, bringing up a fluent half-century of his own.
Together, they stitched a match-defining 110-run partnership in just 58 balls—effectively taking the game away from Rawalpindiz before the halfway mark.
No Way Back for Rawalpindiz
Once that partnership flourished, the contest was all but over.
Even though Rawalpindiz managed to pick up a couple of wickets—removing both set batters—the damage had already been done. The required rate had dropped to almost nothing, and the rest was a formality.
Shan Masood and Ashton Turner calmly guided the Sultans home, wrapping up the chase with composure and ease.
Sultans Send a Strong Message
This wasn’t just another win—it was a warning to the rest of the league.
The Sultans showed balance, depth, and confidence. A match-winning bowling spell, followed by a fearless batting display, highlighted why they are quickly emerging as early favorites this season.
With players like Farhan in unstoppable form and Akram delivering breakthroughs at key moments, Multan Sultans are looking like a team on a mission.
And if this performance is anything to go by, stopping them won’t be easy.
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