Paul Stirling hit the third fastest 50 in the history of the Pakistan Super League as Islamabad United, set 169 for victory, won their opening match by nine wickets with more than four overs to spare.

The globe-trotting opening batsman was named Player of the Match after hitting seven fours and three sixes in his 18-ball half-century before running himself out for 57 after an opening partnership of 112 in 9.4 overs with Alex Hales who finished 82 not out.

Stirling is available for only the first four of Islamabad's 10 group games as he leaves on Saturday to join up with the Ireland squad in Oman, ahead of three warm-up games before the T20 World Cup qualifying tournament.

Islamabad’s next match is on Tuesday at 2.30pm GMT.