Cricket
Islamabad United's PSL Victories: How Many Times Have They Won?
How often has Islamabad United won the PSL (Pakistan Super League), and in which years? Get the full story of their triumphs, including the PSL winners list from each season.
Islamabad United has cemented its legacy in the Pakistan Super League by becoming the most successful franchise in the competition’s history. Formed in 2015, the Islamabad United T20 franchise represents the capital city of Pakistan and is owned by Leonine Global Sports, the sports entity of Leonine Global Investments.
They clinched a record-breaking third title in the 2024 PSL final against Multan Sultans, adding to their victories in 2016 and 2018. Let’s take a closer look at their incredible journey to becoming three-time PSL champions.
Islamabad United’s PSL Record
| Season | Matches | Won | Lost | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 11 | 7 | 4 | Champions |
| 2017 | 9 | 4 | 5 | Play-offs (4th) |
| 2018 | 12 | 8 | 3 | Champions |
| 2019 | 12 | 6 | 6 | Play-offs (3rd) |
| 2020 | 9 | 3 | 6 | League Stage |
| 2021 | 12 | 8 | 4 | Play-offs (3rd) |
| 2022 | 12 | 5 | 7 | Play-offs (3rd) |
| 2023 | 11 | 6 | 5 | Play-offs (4th) |
| 2024 | 10 | 7 | 3 | Champions |
2024 PSL Victory
The 2024 PSL final, held on 18 March at Karachi’s National Stadium, was a spectacle of cricketing drama. Islamabad United defeated Multan Sultans by two wickets in a thrilling encounter, reclaiming the crown after a six-year wait.
Batting first, Multan Sultans set a competitive target of 159 for 9, thanks to standout contributions from Usman Khan (57 runs) and Iftikhar Ahmed (32 runs). However, Islamabad’s bowling attack stole the show, led by Imad Wasim with a stunning 5-wicket haul for just 23 runs, supported by Shadab Khan, who took 3 wickets for 32 runs.
In the chase, Islamabad United demonstrated resilience under pressure, reaching 163 for 8. Martin Guptill’s half-century (50 runs) and Azam Khan’s crucial 30 runs anchored the innings, while Imad Wasim’s unbeaten 19 runs sealed the victory. This triumph reinforced Islamabad’s dominance in PSL history.
Islamabad United is the only team in PSL history to win three titles. Their victories in 2016, 2018, and 2024 cement their legacy as the league’s most successful franchise ever.
2016: The Inaugural Glory
Islamabad United’s first PSL title came in the tournament’s inaugural season in 2016. Despite a shaky start, they finished third in the league stage with 4 wins out of 8 matches.
Their campaign gained momentum in the playoffs, beginning with a dominant nine-wicket victory over Karachi Kings in the eliminator. Mohammad Sami’s extraordinary spell (5 wickets for 8 runs) dismantled Karachi, while Brad Haddin and Dwayne Smith’s fifties ensured a comfortable chase.
In the second qualifier, Sharjeel Khan’s scintillating 117 off 62 balls—PSL’s first-ever century—propelled United to a formidable 176 against Peshawar Zalmi. Imran Khalid’s 4-wicket haul and Andre Russell’s 3 wickets ensured a resounding 50-run victory, earning them a spot in the final.
Facing Quetta Gladiators in the final, Islamabad United clinched the title with a six-wicket win. Dwayne Smith (73 runs) and Brad Haddin (61 runs) led the chase of 175 with ease, cementing their place as PSL’s inaugural champions.
2018: Dominance Restored
After a disappointing 2017 campaign, Islamabad United returned stronger in 2018 under the leadership of Misbah-ul-Haq. Despite initial setbacks, including a loss to Peshawar Zalmi and the injury of key player Rumman Raees, the team bounced back with stunning performances.
A thrilling super-over victory against Lahore Qalandars, sealed by Andre Russell’s last-ball six, reignited their campaign. Luke Ronchi’s explosive batting (71 off 37 balls) powered them past Karachi Kings in the qualifiers, setting up a final clash with Peshawar Zalmi.
In the 2018 final, Islamabad United chased down a target of 149 to claim their second PSL title. Shadab Khan’s 3-wicket spell restricted Zalmi to 148, while Luke Ronchi’s fiery 45 off 15 balls laid the foundation for the chase. A crucial six from Faheem Ashraf sealed the victory, with Ronchi named the “Man of the Match” for his explosive start.
Islamabad United’s three PSL titles in 2016, 2018, and 2024 highlight their consistency and ability to rise to the occasion. They remain the only team in PSL history to achieve this milestone, solidifying their status as the league’s most successful franchise.
FAQs
In the 2024 PSL final, Islamabad United’s bowlers shone, with Imad Wasim taking an exceptional 5 wickets for 23 runs and Shadab Khan claiming 3 wickets for 32 runs. During the chase, Martin Guptill’s half-century (50 runs) and Imad Wasim’s unbeaten 19 runs under pressure were key to their two-wicket win.
In 2016, Sharjeel Khan made history by scoring PSL's first-ever century (117 runs), helping Islamabad secure their first title after a six-wicket win over Quetta Gladiators.
In 2018, Luke Ronchi’s explosive batting (45 off 15 balls in the final) and Shadab Khan’s crucial three-wicket haul led Islamabad to chase down 149 runs against Peshawar Zalmi, marking their second championship win.
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