In a breathtaking finale under the lights at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore Qalandars clinched their third Pakistan Super League (PSL) title, chasing down 202 with just one ball remaining to defeat Quetta Gladiators by six wickets in the PSL X Final.
Thrilling Chase Led by Perera and Raza
Lahore Qalandars, faced with a daunting target of 202, relied on the cool-headed Kusal Perera and the explosive Sikandar Raza to steer them home. Their unbeaten partnership delivered the decisive blow, taking Lahore to 204/4 and securing their third PSL crown in dramatic fashion.
Hasan Nawaz Stars in Quetta’s Innings
Quetta Gladiators, riding high on tournament momentum, built their innings around a stunning knock from young sensation Hasan Nawaz, who smashed 76 runs off 43 balls, including 8 boundaries and 4 sixes. Avishka Fernando (29 off 22) and Faheem Ashraf (28 off just 8 balls) added vital late runs, taking Quetta to a competitive 201/9.
Naeem and Shafique Set the Tone for Lahore
Lahore’s run-chase started strong with Mohammad Naeem’s 46 off 27 balls, injecting early momentum. Abdullah Shafique’s 41 off 28 deliveries helped consolidate the innings before Kusal Perera took charge in the latter half of the chase.
Sikandar Raza’s Late Blitz Seals the Victory
Just when the match seemed to be slipping from Lahore’s hands, Sikandar Raza’s fearless knock of 22 not out from just 7 balls—featuring 2 fours and 2 sixes—turned the tide. His late surge ensured Lahore didn’t need any heroics in the final over.
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Shaheen Afridi’s Legacy Grows
Captain Shaheen Shah Afridi added another chapter to his already storied PSL career. With this win, he becomes the first captain in PSL history to lead his team to three championships, all within four seasons. Lahore now shares the record for most PSL titles with Islamabad United.
Quetta’s Long Wait Continues
Despite an impressive campaign and a heroic final showing from Hasan Nawaz, Quetta Gladiators fell just short once again, leaving their hopes for a second title unfulfilled. Their inability to defend 202 will sting for some time.
A Final Worthy of a Decade
Celebrating the tenth edition of the Pakistan Super League, the PSL X Final had everything—high scores, momentum shifts, young stars, and a legendary finish. The thrilling match will be remembered as one of the most iconic finals in PSL history, underscoring the rising stature of Lahore Qalandars in Pakistan’s premier T20 competition.
