In the latest PSL 2025 clash, Lahore Qalandars outplayed Karachi Kings with a commanding 65-run win at the National Stadium, Karachi. This win not only secured two points but also boosted Lahore’s confidence with strong all-round performances.
Fakhar Zaman Leads with the Bat
Batting first, Lahore Qalandars posted a challenging total of 201/6 in their 20 overs. Fakhar Zaman, named Player of the Match, anchored the innings with a composed and impactful knock. Despite the pitch offering some difficulty for batters, Fakhar adapted well. He emphasized the importance of building partnerships after early setbacks and praised Mitchell for finishing strong at the death.
“I had to play with a little more responsibility today,” Fakhar stated. “The pitch wasn’t the easiest, and we lost a couple of early wickets. My job as an opener is to set the platform, and I’m glad I could contribute.”
Fakhar also credited the bowlers for defending the total and acknowledged the support he received during his recovery from injury, adding that he was still not fully at ease with his body.
Shaheen Strikes Early
Lahore’s defense began with a dream start from captain Shaheen Shah Afridi. He struck twice in the opening over, removing both David Warner and James Vince. This early double blow pushed Karachi on the back foot and shifted the momentum sharply in Lahore’s favor.
Shaheen shared insights post-match, highlighting his consistent strategy with the new ball. “I always aim to pitch it up in the first over. It worked again tonight,” he said. He also praised young spinner Rishad Hossain, who dismantled Karachi’s middle order.
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Rishad Hossain Spins a Web
Bangladeshi spinner Rishad Hossain was lethal in the middle overs. He dismissed key batters—Shan Masood, Abbad Afridi, and Irfan Khan Niazi—breaking the spine of Karachi’s chase. Rishad’s performance further proved why he’s being touted as a rising star.
Asif Afridi and Sikandar Raza also chipped in with wickets, keeping constant pressure on Karachi. Raza eventually sealed the match by bowling Adam Milne in the 20th over.
Karachi Collapse Despite Late Fightback
Karachi Kings were reduced to 50/7 at one stage, with the top and middle order collapsing under relentless pressure. However, Hasan Ali and Khushdil Shah brought brief resistance, hitting a few boundaries and making the scoreline slightly more respectable. But in the end, Lahore’s bowlers cleaned up the tail to bowl out Karachi for 136 in 19.1 overs.
Karachi captain David Warner admitted that the game was lost during the powerplay. “We lost too many early wickets. It was just one of those games you try to forget,” he said. “There were positives, though. The group energy is great, and everyone is giving their best.”
What’s Next
The Pakistan Super League action continues with a highly anticipated rematch of the 2024 final as Islamabad United take on Multan Sultans. With momentum on their side, Lahore Qalandars will look to carry this dominant performance into their upcoming matches.
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