Sharjeel Khan’s splendid century went in vain as Islamabad United defeated Karachi Kings by five wickets in their Pakistan Super League (PSL) VI match at the National Stadium in Karachi on Wednesday.

After Khan’s 59-ball 105 (nine fours and eight sixes) helped the Kings post a challenging total of 196 for three in 20 overs, not a single Islamabad United batsman scored a half-century.

But it didn’t matter as impressive knocks from English opener Alex Hales (46, 21 balls, eight fours, one six), Iftikhar Ahmed (49 not out, 37balls, two fours, three sixes), Hussain Talat (42, 31 balls, four fours) and Asif Ali (21 not out, 9 balls, one four, two sixes) ensured Islamabad United, the two-time winners of the competition, beat the defending champions by five wickets to move up to the second spot behind leaders Lahore Qalandars in the points table.

Despite losing two early wickets -- Phil Salt (0) and Shadab Khan (0) -- United fought hard and a fantastic 62-run partnership off just 22 balls for the third wicket between Hales and Faheem Ashraf (25, 15 balls, two fours and two sixes) set the tone for their victory on what was another beautiful wicket to bat at the National Stadium in Karachi.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan’s leg spinner Rashid Khan thanked Lahore Qalandars and his fans after departing for national duties following a brief stint at the PSL.

“Too soon leaving the PSL. But have to attend national duty,” tweeted Rashid along with a few pictures of him in the Lahore Qalandars colours.

Lahore Qalandars Manager and COO Sameen Rana thanked the Afghani player for his services to the team, calling him a “true Qalandar”.

“Thank you Rashid Khan for all your efforts and contributions. You are not only a great player but also a wonderful person. You are a true Qalandar for life wish you all the best for upcoming series against Zimbabwe,” said Rana.

Rashid was only able to play the opening two games for the Lahore Qalandars.

His departure was, however, expected after he was named in Afghanistan’s squad for the two Test series they will be playing against Zimbabwe from March 2.

Agencies