Qalandars Seal PSL Hat-Trick in Last-Over Thriller!
News Desk
Lahore: In a high-octane finale of the tenth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL X), Lahore Qalandars secured their third title in four years, defeating Quetta Gladiators by six wickets at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Chasing a daunting target of 202 runs, the Qalandars crossed the finish line on the fifth ball of the final over, showcasing nerves of steel and a composed chase under pressure. This win adds to Lahore’s earlier PSL triumphs in 2022 and 2023, marking them as one of the most successful franchises in recent PSL history.
Gladiators Set Formidable Target
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Quetta Gladiators posted an imposing 201 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs. The innings was anchored by an explosive 76 off 43 balls from Hasan Nawaz, who dismantled Lahore’s middle-over bowling strategy with a flurry of boundaries and sixes. Nawaz reached his half-century in just 22 deliveries, combining brute force with elegant stroke play.
He was ably supported by Avishka Fernando (29) and Rilee Rossouw (22), while Faheem Ashraf provided a late surge with a blistering 28 off just 8 balls, including three sixes in the final over.
Lahore’s bowling attack, led by skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi (3 wickets), fought back in the death overs. Haris Rauf and Salman Mirza took two wickets apiece, while Sikandar Raza and Rashid Hussain chipped in with one each.
Lahore’s Chase Anchored by Perera
In response, Lahore Qalandars paced their chase steadily despite early pressure. Kusal Perera played a match-winning knock, remaining unbeaten on 61, guiding his team through crucial phases of the innings. Mohammad Naeem added a valuable 46, while Abdullah Shafique scored a quick 41.
The turning point came in the penultimate over when Sikandar Raza hammered 22 runs off just 7 balls, swinging the momentum decisively in Lahore’s favor.
Quetta’s bowlers tried to maintain control, with Mohammad Amir, Faheem Ashraf, Abrar Ahmed, and Usman Tariq each claiming a wicket. However, they struggled to contain Lahore’s well-timed aggression during the death overs.
Injury Setback and Substitution
The Gladiators suffered a significant setback when Asif Ali sustained an injury after colliding with Mohammad Naeem while fielding. Unable to bat, he was substituted under concussion protocols by Mohammad Akhlaq.
Grand Finale with Special Guests
The final was not only a sporting spectacle but also featured a special tribute to the Pakistan Navy. Dignitaries including Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Interior Minister, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi attended the event. US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker was also among the prominent guests at the stadium.
Captains’ Remarks
Before the match, Quetta captain Saud Shakeel said his side aimed to apply pressure by setting a big total and urged his players to remain calm under pressure. Quetta made one change, bringing in Khurram Shahzad in place of Wasim Junior.
Lahore’s captain Shaheen Afridi expressed confidence in his team’s experience and balance. He confirmed the return of Sikandar Raza to the squad and acknowledged the unwavering support from the home crowd.
