Shafaqna Pakistan: Lahore Qalandars completed an impressive chase of 200 to beat Peshawar Zalmi in a high-scoring clash during the 38th match of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday.
Chasing a challenging target, the Qalandars reached 200 for 4 in 19.3 overs, securing an important win to keep their playoff hopes alive while ending Zalmi’s strong run.
The innings got off to a positive start with Mohammad Naeem providing early impetus before departing for 10 off eight balls. Abdullah Shafique then accelerated the scoring with a quick 25 off 11 deliveries, but his dismissal created a need for stability.
Fakhar Zaman steadied the chase with a composed yet confident innings, guiding the team while keeping the required run rate under control.
Charith Asalanka contributed 33 off 28 balls, stitching together a valuable partnership with Fakhar to rebuild after early wickets. The pair rotated strike effectively while capitalising on loose deliveries to keep the scoreboard moving.
Sikandar Raza then shifted the momentum decisively in Lahore’s favour with a quickfire 29 off just 11 balls. His aggressive approach, including two fours and three sixes, lifted the scoring rate during the crucial middle overs.
Raza’s innings ended in unusual fashion as he was dismissed hit wicket, but the damage had already been done.
With the target in sight, Fakhar remained unbeaten on 58 off 47 deliveries, guiding the chase with composure. At the other end, Daniel Sams delivered a decisive late flourish, smashing 35 not out from 15 balls to bring Lahore within touching distance.
Sams’ acceleration in the death overs ensured there were no late stumbles, as Lahore crossed the target with three balls to spare.
Earlier, Peshawar Zalmi had posted 199 for 4, powered by Michael Bracewell’s explosive 83 and Babar Azam’s steady 59. Despite a strong total, Zalmi’s bowling attack struggled to contain Lahore’s batting depth on a surface conducive to stroke play.
The result significantly impacts the tournament standings. Zalmi, who had entered the match unbeaten in their last five outings, see their momentum halted, while Lahore Qalandars secure a vital win to strengthen their chances of progressing further in PSL 11.
The chase stands among the more clinical pursuits of the season, with Lahore maintaining control for most of the innings and finishing the job with authority under pressure.
Source: Dunya News
