Babar Azam’s team suffered a huge defeat, losing by 451 runs to David Warner’s side in a stunning cricket match. Warner’s team dominated completely, handing Babar one of the biggest losses of his career in dramatic fashion.
Warner Leads Karachi Kings to Big Victory
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) saw one of its most exciting matches this season as Karachi Kings defeated Peshawar Zalmi in a high-scoring thriller in Rawalpindi. Both teams combined to score an amazing 451 runs, but Karachi came out on top by 23 runs.
Karachi Kings Set a Huge Target
Karachi Kings batted first after losing the toss. Their captain, David Warner, led from the front with a powerful performance. He scored 86 runs off just 50 balls, hitting 11 fours and 2 sixes.
He got great support from James Vince, who made 72 runs off 42 balls. Vince kept the scoreboard moving with smart shots and quick running between the wickets.
The quick finish came from Khushdil Shah and Mohammad Nabi. Khushdil smashed 43 runs off only 15 balls, hitting boundaries all around the ground. Nabi added 26 off 10 balls, helping Karachi reach a massive total of 237 for 4 in 20 overs.
Babar Azam Fights Back for Peshawar Zalmi
In response, Peshawar Zalmi started strongly, thanks to their captain Babar Azam. He played a brilliant innings, scoring 94 runs from 49 balls. Babar hit 10 fours and 4 sixes and kept Zalmi in the chase.
Saim Ayub also played well, adding 47 runs off 31 balls. The pair gave Peshawar hope, but after their dismissals, the rest of the batting line-up could not keep up with the required run rate.
Peshawar finished their innings at 214 for 5 in 20 overs, falling short by 23 runs.
Playoff Picture Becomes Clearer
This win is very important for Karachi Kings. With 12 points from 9 matches, they are now in second place on the points table. This victory has also secured their place in the PSL 2025 playoffs.
Peshawar Zalmi, on the other hand, remains in fifth place with 8 points. They still have a chance to reach the playoffs, but they need to win their remaining matches and hope other results go their way.
Washed Out Match in Bengaluru
While this exciting match was going on in Rawalpindi, a match between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League (IPL) had to be cancelled due to rain in Bengaluru.
Though both matches were scheduled at the same time, the contrast was striking—rain stopped play in one, while the other became a run-scoring festival.
Summary of the Match
| Team | Score | Top Scorers | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Karachi Kings | 237/4 (20 ov) | David Warner (86), Vince (72) | Won by 23 runs |
| Peshawar Zalmi | 214/5 (20 ov) | Babar Azam (94), Saim Ayub (47) | Lost |
What’s Next?
Karachi Kings are in great form and will look to keep their momentum going in the playoffs. David Warner’s leadership and their powerful batting line-up make them one of the top teams in this year’s PSL.
For Peshawar Zalmi, there are still chances left, but they need to regroup quickly and bounce back in the coming matches. Their captain Babar Azam is in superb touch, but the rest of the team must also contribute more.
Final Thoughts
The Rawalpindi clash between Karachi Kings and Peshawar Zalmi gave fans a lot to cheer for—brilliant batting, close chase, and a thrilling finish. It was one of the most exciting matches of PSL 2025 so far.
