Hyderabad Kingsmen produced a thrilling comeback victory to book their place in the PSL 11 final. The debutants defeated Islamabad United by just two runs in a nail-biting second eliminator at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore on May 1, 2026. This win sets up an exciting final clash against table-toppers Peshawar Zalmi on Sunday.
Put into bat first, the Kingsmen recovered strongly from a shaky start to post a competitive total of 186 for 5 in 20 overs. After losing early wickets, captain Marnus Labuschagne steadied the ship with a solid 40 off 32 balls. However, the real hero of the innings was Usman, who smashed an unbeaten 61 off just 30 deliveries, including 10 boundaries. His explosive 101-run partnership with Kusal Perera turned the game in their favor and took the total past 180.
In reply, Islamabad United started poorly, losing two quick wickets for just 15 runs. Skipper Shadab Khan and Devon Conway tried to rebuild, but regular breakthroughs kept the pressure on. Mark Chapman played a fighting knock of 43 off 26 balls with five fours and two sixes, while Haider Ali added quick 31. The pair built a crucial 64-run stand, but the Kingsmen bowlers kept striking at important moments.
The game reached a dramatic climax when United needed only six runs off the final over. Hunain Shah delivered a superb death over, conceding just three runs and securing a memorable two-run win for his team. Hunain took two wickets overall and earned the well-deserved Player of the Match award for his calm performance under pressure.
Ali and Hunain each claimed two wickets for the Kingsmen, while other bowlers provided excellent support. For United, Imad Wasim was impressive with two wickets for 16 runs but it was not enough to stop the Kingsmen charge.
This victory marks a historic moment for the debutant franchise as they reach the final in their very first PSL season. Cricket fans can now look forward to a high-voltage final between Hyderabad Kingsmen and Peshawar Zalmi.
