In a thrilling finale to the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025, the Lahore Qalandars emerged victorious against the Quetta Gladiators, chasing down a formidable target of 202 runs. The spotlight of the match shone brightly on all-rounder Sikandar Raza, who made a remarkable impact after returning from Test duties representing Zimbabwe. With ten minutes to spare before the toss, Raza stepped into the Qalandars’ playing XI and ultimately clinched the win with a match-winning six, securing the title for Lahore at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Raza’s performance was a testament to his extraordinary journey, which included flying from multiple international locations just to participate in the match. He shared that in a span of just 24 hours, he enjoyed dinner in Birmingham, breakfast in Dubai, and lunch in Abu Dhabi before heading directly to Lahore for this crucial final. His contributions were significant; he took one wicket and scored 22 runs off only seven balls, playing a pivotal role in Lahore’s successful chase with one ball to spare.
The Qalandars’ chase was significantly bolstered by Kusal Perera’s standout innings of 62 runs, alongside valuable contributions from key players such as Mohammad Naeem and Abdullah Shafique. Raza’s whirlwind arrival and clutch performance, however, captured the hearts of Lahoris and added to the narrative of his storied cricket career.
Lahore concluded their innings at 204 for 4 in 19.5 overs, marking their third PSL title in four years. With this victory, captain Shaheen Shah Afridi cemented his status as the only captain to lead his team to three PSL championships. Earlier in the match, Quetta Gladiators had set a challenging total of 201 for 9, with a notable performance from Hasan Nawaz, who scored 76 runs off 43 balls. Faheem Ashraf also made headlines with an aggressive innings of 28 runs off just eight balls, showcasing the competitive spirit inherent in the tournament.
Afridi was exceptional with the ball, claiming 3 wickets for 24 runs, while Perera was honored as the player of the match for his crucial innings that kept the Qalandars in contention right up to the final over. Additionally, Hasan Nawaz received the accolade of player of the tournament for his impressive tally of 399 runs throughout the competition.
This thrilling encounter underscored the significance of the PSL as a premier platform for cricket in Pakistan, reflecting the nation’s vibrant culture and commitment to the sport. The success of the Lahore Qalandars not only adds to their legacy but also enhances the profile of cricket as a unifying force in the region.
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