In a stunning turn of events at the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Jason Roy’s unbeaten 145 off just 63 balls helped Quetta Gladiators secure a remarkable eight-wicket victory over Peshawar Zalmi. The England opener’s breathtaking innings was a masterclass in aggressive strokeplay, as he smashed 20 fours and five sixes and steered Quetta to a record-breaking run chase of 243-2 with 10 balls to spare.
Roy was in devastating form, taking on Peshawar’s fast bowlers with ease and dominating the run-chase from the onset. He was ably supported by veteran Mohammad Hafeez, who scored an unbeaten 41 off just 18 balls to help Quetta seal their most memorable win in the tournament.
The match had started with a flurry of runs from both sides, with Peshawar’s Babar Azam scoring his first PSL century, a sensational knock of 115 off just 65 balls. Young left-hander Saim Ayub also blazed 74 off 34 balls, setting up what looked like a formidable total of 240-2 for Quetta to chase. However, Roy had other ideas and completely overshadowed Babar’s knock with his own exceptional display of batting.
Reflecting on his match-winning innings, Roy said, “In T20, it’s as good as I’ve ever played. Chasing that total is something that doesn’t happen often, so I’m going to cherish this.”
Despite Babar’s impressive knock, Peshawar’s bowlers were unable to execute their plans effectively and allowed Quetta to achieve the highest-ever successful run chase in PSL history. Even experienced fast bowler Wahab Riaz was unable to contain Roy’s onslaught, conceding 10 fours and a six in his four overs.
Quetta’s victory has kept their slim hopes of qualifying for the playoffs alive, with six points from nine matches, while Peshawar still has two games in hand and has eight points from eight games.
The match was full of drama and excitement, with both sides putting up an impressive display of batting. However, it was Roy’s exceptional innings that stole the show and ensured that Quetta emerged victorious in what will go down as one of the most memorable matches in the history of the PSL.
Leon Osamor
