Lahore, Pakistan – Azam Khan unleashed a devastating 74-run innings from just 34 balls on Thursday, April 2, 2026, guiding Karachi Kings to a thrilling five-wicket victory over Rawalpindiz in the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11. The match at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, saw Karachi successfully chase down a challenging target of 198 runs with four balls to spare, extending their unbeaten run in the tournament and securing their position at the top of the points table.
Khan's Game-Changing Performance
Karachi Kings faced a formidable chase after Rawalpindiz posted a strong total of 197 for six wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Rawalpindiz's innings was bolstered by half-centuries from Daryl Mitchell, who scored 65 runs off 41 balls, and Sam Billings, who contributed 58 runs from 35 deliveries. Their partnership of 120 runs laid a solid foundation, making Karachi's task even harder. Hasan Ali was the standout bowler for Karachi Kings, claiming three wickets for just 24 runs in his four overs, helping to restrict the opposition in the death overs.[pakistantoday+1]
The Kings' pursuit began with opener Muhammad Waseem scoring a quick 23 runs off 11 balls, followed by a steady 50 from 36 deliveries by David Warner. However, the asking rate remained high, keeping the match finely balanced. Azam Khan, batting at number four, arrived at the crease at a crucial juncture. He immediately shifted the momentum with his aggressive stroke play, hitting six fours and six towering sixes during his innings. Khan reached his fifty in just 29 balls, demonstrating remarkable power-hitting under pressure.[dawn+6]
A Nervy Finish
Azam Khan's onslaught was pivotal, injecting much-needed acceleration into the chase. He formed a valuable 76-run partnership off 42 balls with David Warner, keeping the Rawalpindiz bowlers under constant pressure. Despite being dropped multiple times in the latter stages of his innings, Azam continued to dominate, taking the equation down to 26 runs needed off the last three overs at one point. His dismissal in the 18th over, after putting Karachi in a commanding position, set up a tense finish.[pcb+3]
With Azam Khan gone, the responsibility fell to the remaining batsmen. Mohammad Abbas Afridi ultimately sealed the victory for Karachi Kings in dramatic fashion, smashing a six over long-on in the penultimate over, mirroring his match-winning shot in the previous game against Lahore Qalandars. This ensured Karachi maintained their perfect record in the tournament. The five-wicket win with four balls remaining highlighted the team's resilience and ability to perform under pressure.[pakistantoday+3]
Unbeaten Kings Lead the Table
This hard-fought win marked Karachi Kings' third consecutive victory in the HBL PSL 11. The team now sits comfortably atop the points table, establishing themselves as a dominant force early in the tournament. Azam Khan's exceptional performance earned him the Player of the Match award. He later expressed satisfaction with his runs, even if he felt his innings was not flawless, noting his "gut feeling" about batting at number four as his ideal position after the powerplay. The partnership with Warner was also crucial, with both players aiming for at least one boundary every over.[pcb+5]
The Karachi Kings will look to continue their winning streak as the HBL PSL 11 progresses. Their ability to chase down high totals, powered by individual brilliance like Azam Khan's, makes them a formidable contender for the championship title this season. The team's strong start has set a high benchmark for other franchises in the league.[pakistantoday+1]
