Islamabad pip Multan to seal top-two spot

Islamabad United secured a top-two finish with a six-wicket win over Multan Sultans in the final league game. Mark Chapman's whirlwind 69* off 33 balls helped Islamabad chase down 192. Islamabad will now face Peshawar Zalmi in the Qualifier.

Batting first, Multan openers Steve Smith and Sahibzada Farhan made identical 30s before falling in consecutive deliveries. Josh Philippe struggled (11 off 13) but shared a 42-run stand with Shan Masood (44). Arafat Minhas (31) and Mohammad Wasim Jr. (26 off 9) ensured a strong finish as Multan reached 192/7. Each Islamabad bowler picked up a wicket.

In reply, Islamabad lost both openers inside the Powerplay. A 63-run partnership between Shadab Khan and Mark Chapman kept them on track. Chapman, dropped early by Wasim Jr., unleashed with six sixes and four fours, sealing the game in the 19th over by hitting Wasim Jr. for a six and two fours.

Multan will face Hyderabad Kingsmen in the first Eliminator.

Brief Scores: Multan Sultans 192/7 in 20 overs (Shan Masood 44; Chris Green 1-29) lost to Islamabad United 193/6 in 18.4 overs (Mark Chapman 69*; Faisal Akram 2-41) by six wickets.