Islamabad: Lahore Qalandars pulled off a breathtaking victory to claim their third Pakistan Super League (PSL) title at the Gaddafi Stadium.
Chasing a daunting target of 202 runs set by Quetta Gladiators, the Qalandars showed remarkable composure and firepower.
With 57 runs needed off the final 20 balls, the duo of Sikandar Raza and Kusal Perera sparked a sensational comeback.
Perera’s unbeaten 62 runs off 31 balls, along with Raza’s quickfire 22 off 7 balls, guided Lahore to a thrilling win with just one ball to spare. This chase marked the highest successful run chase in a PSL final, electrifying fans and setting a new standard for finals in the league.
Sikandar Raza’s Late Arrival, Immediate Impact
Raza’s presence was a game-changer.
Having just flown in from England after a demanding Test match for Zimbabwe, he arrived only 10 minutes before the toss but wasted no time making his mark.
His aggressive batting brought momentum back to Lahore at a critical juncture. With a boundary and a six off his first two balls, Raza ignited the innings and kept the pressure on Quetta Gladiators.
His fearless hitting in the final overs helped steady the chase and ultimately seal the victory, proving his immense value under pressure.
Shaheen Afridi’s Leadership and Bowling Brilliance
Lahore’s captain Shaheen Shah Afridi delivered a standout performance with the ball and led his team with conviction.
He took key wickets, including an early breakthrough by dismissing Quetta’s opening batsman, finishing with impressive figures of 3 wickets for 24 runs.
Afridi’s leadership was critical in managing the high-pressure chase and motivating his teammates to stay focused and execute their plan.
His efforts played a crucial role in securing Lahore Qalandars’ third PSL championship in four seasons.
