Islamabad United pulled off an incredible one-run win over Quetta Gladiators as Mohammad Sami celebrated his 36th birthday with a remarkable final over.
Needing five to win from the last, Quetta somehow missed the chance to seal top spot in the group stage when victory looked certain.
Instead, Islamabad confirmed their place in the Qualifying Finals as Sami went for just three runs in the most remarkable of comeback victories.
Set 166 for victory, Quetta initially made light work of the target thanks to a superb 133-run partnership between Ahmed Shehzad and Kevin Pietersen for the second wicket.
Both players were dismissed in successive deliveries, Pietersen wrongly given out lbw to Shadab Khan before Shehzad found Shadab on the long-on boundary off Sami, the young leg-spinner completing a stunning catch to give his side a semblance of hope.
Islamabad United vs Quetta Gladiators
- Islamabad United 165-6
- Talat (56); Babar (2-17)
- Quetta Gladiators
- Pietersen (69); Irfan (1-23)
Pietersen’s 69 from just 43 balls was another stellar knock from the former England man while it was Shehzad’s second fifty in as many days and matches to put Quetta in pole position.
But, with just seven needed from the last two overs, Rilee Rossouw and Anwar Ali imploded, unable to see their side over the line and handing Islamabad all the points.