PSL 10: James Vince’s century powers Kings to thrilling win over Sultans in high-scoring clash

KARACHI: James Vince’s explosive century inspired Karachi Kings to a thrilling four-wicket victory over Multan Sultans in their opening clash of PSL Season 10 at the National Bank Stadium on Saturday.

Set a massive target of 235, the Kings completed the chase with four wickets in hand and two balls remaining, in what turned out to be one of the most remarkable run-chases in PSL history.

Vince was the star of the night, crafting a sensational 101 off just 43 balls, decorated with 14 boundaries and four towering sixes. His innings laid the foundation for the win and was complemented by a vital 142-run partnership with Khushdil Shah, who contributed a fiery 60 off 38, including five fours and four sixes.

Despite both batters falling within the space of a few deliveries, reducing Karachi to 222/6 in the 19th over, Irfan Khan and Abbas Afridi held their nerve to see the hosts home with a calm and composed stand in the final over.

Earlier, Tim Seifert gave Karachi a blazing start, smashing 32 off 16 balls with two fours and three sixes to set the tone for the massive chase.

On the bowling front, Akif Javed stood out for Multan with three wickets, while Usama Mir and Michael Bracewell picked up one each.

Batting first, Multan Sultans posted a daunting total of 234/3, anchored by a brilliant unbeaten 105 from skipper Mohammad Rizwan, who faced 63 deliveries and struck nine fours and five sixes.

After an early stand of 55 runs in five overs with Shai Hope (8), Rizwan continued to anchor the innings. Yasir Khan, promoted up the order, chipped in with a quick 36 off 19, before falling to Abbas Afridi.

The innings ended on a high with Rizwan and Michael Bracewell (44* off 17) adding an unbeaten 89-run partnership off just 32 balls, lifting Multan to a formidable total.

Among Karachi’s bowlers, Hasan Ali, Abbas Afridi, and Khushdil Shah managed to claim a wicket each.