Multan Sultans suffered a crushing seven-wicket defeat against Islamabad United in the 2025 Pakistan Super League (PSL), leaving captain Muhammad Rizwan visibly frustrated with his own performance. Rizwan, who has been in fine form this season, could only manage a scratchy 37-ball 36 before being dismissed by Shadab Khan in the 14th over of the innings.
The Sultans, who had a disappointing start to the season with just one win from their first four matches, were banking on a strong performance in this home fixture. Rizwan played the anchoring role while Yasir Khan and Usman Khan contributed with impressive knocks to set up a decent total. However, the hosts needed Rizwan to accelerate the scoring rate, and his dismissal at a crucial juncture derailed their plans.
After being dismissed, Rizwan showed his frustration by flinging his helmet onto the advertising boards before storming off to the dressing room. The Sultans struggled to build momentum after his departure and could only manage a total of 168-5 in their allotted overs.
In response, defending champions Islamabad United chased down the target comfortably with 17 deliveries to spare. Opening batter Andries Gous starred with an unbeaten 80, supported by contributions from Sahibzada Farhan and Colin Munro.
Despite the team’s struggles, Rizwan has been a standout performer individually in PSL 2025. He currently ranks as the second-highest run-scorer in the tournament, with 226 runs in five innings at an impressive average of 56.50 and a strike rate of 147.71. His unbeaten century against the Karachi Kings earlier in the season showcased his batting prowess.
The defeat against Islamabad United was a setback for the Multan Sultans, but Rizwan’s consistent performances have been a silver lining in an otherwise challenging campaign. As the white-ball captain of Pakistan, Rizwan will be looking to lead by example and guide his team to better results in the remainder of the tournament.