Kusal Mendis smashed a brilliant century to lead Peshawar Zalmi to a massive 159-run victory over Karachi Kings on Thursday. This dominant performance in the 17th match of PSL 11 took place at the National Bank Stadium.

The Kings faced a daunting 247-run target but struggled from the start. The 2020 champions collapsed for just 87 runs in 16.1 overs. This result marks their first defeat in the ongoing eight-team tournament. Azam Khan top-scored for the home side with a cautious 25 runs. Meanwhile, middle-order batters Saad Baig and Khushdil Shah were the only others to reach double figures.

Peshawar’s bowling attack clinicaly dismantled the opposition. Nahid Rana, Sufiyan Muqeem, and Iftikhar Ahmed each claimed three wickets. Shoriful Islam also chipped in with one wicket to complete the rout.

Earlier, Karachi captain David Warner chose to field first, a decision that quickly backfired. The 2017 champions amassed a mammoth 246/3 in their 20 overs. Despite losing Mohammad Haris for a duck on the second ball, Zalmi recovered through a monumental 191-run partnership.

Mendis and Babar Azam dominated the Kings’ bowlers for 97 deliveries. Mendis eventually fell for a blazing 109 off 52 balls, featuring 14 fours and four sixes. Babar remained unbeaten on 87, anchoring the innings with 10 fours and two sixes.

Abdul Samad provided a late flourish with a quickfire 40 off just 12 deliveries. This cameo pushed the total well beyond Karachi’s reach. Abbas Afridi was the only notable bowler for the Kings, taking 2 for 55. This emphatic win significantly strengthens Peshawar Zalmi’s position in the PSL 11 standings.