Amir, Faheem clash as Rawalpindi dominate Islamabad in PSL encounter

A tense moment unfolded during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) clash between Rawalpindi and Islamabad United at the National Bank Stadium on Thursday, as fast bowler Mohammad Amir became involved in a heated exchange with all-rounder Faheem Ashraf.

The incident occurred on the third ball of the 17th over when Amir delivered a well-directed slower bouncer. Faheem attempted an upper cut but only managed to edge the ball through to wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan.

Following the dismissal, Amir celebrated animatedly and gestured towards Faheem to head back to the pavilion, prompting an angry reaction.

Faheem confronted Amir, pointing his bat in frustration before teammates Asif Afridi and Saad Masood intervened to calm the situation and separate the pair.

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Earlier, Rawalpindi’s decision to field first proved highly effective, as they restricted Islamabad United to 137 in their 20 overs.

Islamabad struggled to build momentum from the outset, with openers Devon Conway and Sameer Minhas unable to accelerate during the powerplay.

Amir made the breakthrough in the fifth over, dismissing Minhas for 6 from 11 deliveries, ending a modest 20-run opening partnership.

Naseem Shah struck soon after, removing Mohammad Faiq for 5, leaving Islamabad at 29-2. The pressure intensified when Saad Masood dismissed Shadab Khan for just 1, reducing the side to 30-3.

A brief recovery followed as Conway and Mark Chapman steadied the innings with a 49-run stand. However, Daryl Mitchell broke the partnership by dismissing Conway for a well-made 40.

Chapman departed shortly after for 23, and Islamabad’s innings quickly unravelled. Haider Ali and Faheem Ashraf were unable to make significant contributions as wickets continued to fall at regular intervals.

Amir returned to claim Faheem’s wicket, further denting Islamabad’s hopes. Chris Green provided some late impetus with a quick 29, but his efforts were not enough to lift the total to a competitive score.

Dian Forrester wrapped up the innings efficiently, dismissing Mohammad Hasnain for a first-ball duck and then removing Richard Gleeson to seal the innings at 137.