LAHORE: A night of high drama and explosive cricket unfolded at Gaddafi Stadium as Fakhar Zaman delivered a match-winning century to guide Lahore Qalandars to a narrow nine-run victory over Quetta Gladiators in Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11.
Chasing a daunting target of 199, the Gladiators fought hard but eventually fell short, finishing at 188 for 7 in their 20 overs, despite a strong batting effort led by Rilee Rossouw.
The chase began with promise as Saud Shakeel and Shamyl Hussain built a solid 49-run opening partnership. Shamyl looked in fine touch, attacking the Qalandars’ bowlers with confidence and bringing up his third half-century of the season. However, his innings ended in heartbreak after a sharp run-out on 53 off 31 balls, including three sixes and five fours.
Momentum shifted quickly when Haris Rauf struck to remove Hassan Nawaz for a duck, putting pressure on the Gladiators at 88-3. From there, Rossouw counterattacked in style, smashing boundaries and sixes to keep his side in the hunt.
The South African batter produced a stunning 62 off just 29 balls, hitting five fours and five sixes, and looked set to take the game deep. However, his dismissal in the 14th over proved to be the turning point, as Lahore tightened their grip on the match.
Despite late resistance from Abrar Ahmed, who remained unbeaten on 24, Quetta could not close the gap as the required run rate climbed out of reach.
Earlier in the evening, Fakhar Zaman had set the tone for Lahore Qalandars with a breathtaking 103 off 51 deliveries. His innings, featuring 11 fours and six towering sixes, laid the foundation for a strong total of 197-6. A crucial 96-run partnership with Charith Asalanka further strengthened Lahore’s dominance before late finishing touches from Daniel Sams ensured a competitive score.
Fakhar’s brilliance earned him the spotlight, but Lahore’s bowling unit held their nerve in the final overs to defend the total successfully. Haris Rauf’s disciplined spell proved vital in breaking Quetta’s momentum at key moments.
With this victory, Lahore Qalandars continue to build momentum in PSL 11, while Quetta Gladiators face a tough road ahead with their playoff hopes hanging by a thread.
