Islamabad United’s openers laid waste to Karachi Kings’ bowling in their clash in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 9 at the National Bank Cricket Arena, Karachi, leading to a win with nine balls remaining.

Islamabad United won the toss and decided to field first. Batting first, Karachi got off to a slow start, falling to 17-1 in 2.4 overs.

However, Kieron Pollard breathed life into the innings with 48 runs of 28 balls, hitting two fours and six.

Shan Masood and Irfan Khan made 27 runs apiece, as Kings finished with 165/5 in 20 overs.

Imad Wasim, Naseem Shah, Agha Salman and Hunain Shah picked one wicket each.

In reponse, Islamabad United came out swinging right out of the gate. Colin Munro scored 60 runs off 33 deliveries while Alex Hales scored 37 off 27 to reach 97 runs without the loss of a wicket in 10 overs.

United went on to lose three wickets but still reached the target with nine balls to spare.

The Shan Masood-led Kings have won two of their last three games and sit at fourth place with four points on the table.

United, on the other hand, have lost three games on the trot after winning their opening game. They are placed in the fifth position with two points.

The Karachi traffic police issued a traffic plan as the national stadium would host a total of 11 matches, including the playoffs and the final.

Players will be in action in Karachi till March 18. The final of the event will also be played in the metropolitan.

The traffic plan has been issued to ensure smooth flow and convenience for spectators.