Lahore Qalandars Crowned PSL Champions Again

LAHORE: Sikandar Raza celebrated triumphantly, punching the air alongside Kusal Perera as fireworks erupted in the background. The Lahore Qalandars claimed their third Pakistan Super League title in four seasons after a thrilling victory.

The Quetta Gladiators had taken an early lead in the final on Sunday, aiming for their second PSL title after securing their first six years ago. They had tightened their grip on the match, leaving the Qalandars needing 57 runs from the last 20 balls when Raza arrived at the crease.

In a stunning turn of events, the Qalandars found newfound motivation, while the Gladiators faltered. Perera played brilliantly, scoring an unbeaten 62 off just 31 balls, including four sixes and five fours. Raza supported him with a quick 22 off seven balls, helping their team secure victory with just one ball remaining. As teammates rushed onto the field in celebration, the Gladiators were left in disbelief, pondering what could have been.

Raza’s Heroics

Raza had just flown in from England after playing a Test match for Zimbabwe that concluded on Saturday and arrived a mere ten minutes before the toss. He initiated the turnaround by hitting the first two balls he faced for a four and a six, right after Mohammad Amir had dismissed Bhanuka Rajapaksa, putting the Gladiators in a strong position.

Perera’s Explosive Performance

Perera launched the counterattack from the other end. After being included in the Qalandars’ lineup post the PSL pause, he hit Khurram Shahzad for two sixes and took advantage of Amir in the penultimate over, striking two fours and a six to leave the Qalandars needing 13 runs in the final over. Raza emerged as a key player again, hitting a massive six, igniting celebrations among the home crowd.

Gladiators Take Early Control

Skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi hoisted Raza onto his shoulders in celebration. Afridi was also crucial with the ball, claiming 3-24, providing an early breakthrough by dismissing Gladiators’ captain Saud Shakeel. Despite losing early wickets, Hasan Nawaz, who had made 76, kept the Gladiators steady and ensured they posted 201-9.

Qalandars Begin Their Chase

Mohammad Naeem started strongly for the Qalandars, smashing two sixes off Faheem Ashraf. Despite losing his partner Fakhar Zaman early, Naeem kept the momentum going. The Qalandars reached 56-1 at the end of the powerplay, with Naeem contributing six sixes in his 27-ball innings.

Final Push to Victory

Abdullah Shafique and Naeem had solid partnerships, but as the match progressed, the Gladiators seemed to regain control, putting pressure on the Qalandars. However, Raza and Perera’s stunning late charge turned the tide, culminating in an unforgettable victory.

Published in Dawn, May 26th, 2025