Captain Babar Leads from Front in Massive Zalmi Win
News Desk
Karachi: A dominant all-round performance led by Babar Azam propelled Peshawar Zalmi to a crushing 118-run win over Quetta Gladiators, exposing serious cracks in the latter’s campaign in the 29th match of PSL 11.
Put in to bat, Zalmi turned the tables on Quetta captain Saud Shakeel’s decision with a batting masterclass, piling up a massive 255 for 3 — one of the highest totals of the season.
At the heart of the onslaught was Babar’s unbeaten 100, capped off on the final ball, anchoring a relentless innings that left the opposition deflated.
After an explosive start, the innings was defined by a commanding 135-run stand between Babar and Kusal Mendis, whose 83 off 44 balls dismantled Quetta’s bowling plans. Late acceleration from Aaron Hardie ensured Zalmi finished with imposing momentum.
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In reply, Quetta never recovered from the scoreboard pressure. Regular wickets derailed the chase, with only Bevon Jacobs showing resistance with a modest 34.
The rest of the batting line-up failed to build partnerships, folding for 137 in 18.1 overs — a collapse that underlined their struggles against top-tier opposition.
Zalmi’s bowling unit complemented the batting dominance with a clinical display. Mohammad Basit and Ali Raza led the charge with three wickets apiece, while others chipped in to ensure there was no way back for Quetta.
The emphatic win not only reinforces Zalmi’s credentials as title contenders but also raises fresh concerns for the Gladiators, whose inconsistency continues to haunt their campaign as the tournament heads into its decisive phase.
