In a thrilling encounter in the PSL 2026, Sam Billings led Rawalpindi to a formidable total of 182 runs for the loss of 8 wickets against Multan Sultans. This performance came in Match 14 of the tournament.
Match Highlights
Multan Sultans won the toss and chose to field first. Their strategy initially paid off as they managed to trouble Rawalpindi’s top order significantly. Former Sultans captain Mohammad Rizwan scored a modest 19 runs from 13 balls before being dismissed by Arafat Minhas during the powerplay. Minhas showcased impressive bowling skills, ending with figures of 2 wickets for 22 runs.
Rawalpindi’s Struggles
At one point, Rawalpindi found themselves in a precarious situation at 66 runs for 3 wickets in just the 8th over. This is when Faisal Akram entered the fray and delivered a remarkable bowling performance. The left-arm wrist-spinner took control of the match, claiming four wickets for 31 runs.
- Key Dismissals by Faisal Akram:
- Kamran Ghulam – 35 runs off 24 balls
- Daryl Mitchell – 17 runs off 12 balls
Akram’s efforts left Rawalpindi reeling at 128 runs for 7 wickets by the 15th over. However, Sam Billings emerged as a beacon of hope.
Sam Billings’ Stellar Knock
The veteran wicketkeeper-batsman played a pivotal role, scoring a well-crafted 56 runs off 34 balls. His innings included seven boundaries and one six. Billings received valuable support from Dian Forrester, who scored a quickfire 24 runs off 11 balls, hitting three sixes to further enhance Rawalpindi’s score.
The pair particularly targeted Mohammad Wasim Jr., who endured a tough outing, conceding 44 runs in his four overs. During the last five overs of the innings, Rawalpindi scored a staggering 60 runs, significantly boosting their total.
Final Thoughts
Despite late wickets from Peter Siddle (1-31) and Mohammad Ismail (1-24), the damage was already done. Rawalpindi’s total of 182 runs sets the Sultans in a challenging position, with a required run rate of 9.15. This performance could mark Rawalpindi’s opportunity to secure their first points of the season.
