In a pulsating Pakistan Super League (PSL) encounter at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore Qalandars delivered a batting masterclass to set a formidable target of 210 for Islamabad United. The Qalandars’ explosive performance, driven by their top order, left the crowd buzzing and set the stage for a high-stakes chase.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Lahore Qalandars started aggressively. Openers Fakhar Zaman and Sahibzada Farhan laid a solid foundation with a 75-run partnership in just 7 overs. Fakhar, in scintillating form, smashed 62 off 34 balls, including five fours and three towering sixes, before being dismissed by a sharp yorker from Naseem Shah. Farhan complemented him with a brisk 45 off 28, peppering the boundary with elegant cover drives.
The momentum continued as captain Shaheen Afridi promoted himself up the order, a tactical move that paid dividends. Shaheen’s blistering 38 off 19 balls, laced with two sixes and three fours, kept the scoreboard ticking. Rassie van der Dussen anchored the middle overs, crafting an unbeaten 55 off 35 balls. His ability to rotate the strike while finding gaps ensured Lahore maintained a run rate above 10. The late flourish came from Sikandar Raza, whose quickfire 22 off 10 balls, including a monstrous six, propelled Lahore past the 200-mark.
Islamabad United’s bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught. Shadab Khan, usually a trump card, proved expensive, conceding 42 runs in his four overs. Naseem Shah was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 2 wickets for 34, but lacked support. Tymal Mills’ variations were ineffective, leaking 48 runs in his spell.
The pitch, offering good pace and carry, favored the batsmen but showed signs of slowing down, which could challenge Islamabad’s chase. With a strong batting lineup featuring Alex Hales, Colin Munro, and Azam Khan, United will fancy their chances, but Lahore’s bowlers, led by Shaheen and Haris Rauf, pose a serious threat.
As the second innings looms, this high-scoring thriller promises more drama. Can Islamabad United rise to the challenge, or will Lahore Qalandars’ batting fireworks secure them the victory? The PSL 2025 season is off to an electrifying start!
