Lahore Qalandars achieved a monumental milestone in Twenty20 cricket by successfully chasing 202 runs against Quetta Gladiators in the PSL 10 final. This thrilling win, secured with just one ball remaining, marks the highest-ever run chase in a T20 final. The previous record was 200 runs, set by Kolkata Knight Riders in the 2014 IPL final.
Quetta Gladiators’ Unfortunate Feat
In a dramatic twist, Quetta Gladiators became the first team to lose a T20 final after posting a 200-plus total. Despite their strong batting performance, Lahore’s relentless pursuit ensured Quetta’s efforts fell short. The match, held at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore, will be remembered as one of the most electrifying finals in PSL history.
Shaheen Afridi’s Captaincy Legacy
Shaheen Afridi further solidified his place in PSL history by becoming the most successful captain. Leading Lahore Qalandars to their third title, the 25-year-old surpassed all other captains. His previous victories came in 2022 and 2023, setting a new benchmark in the league. No other PSL captain has won more than one title, highlighting Shaheen’s dominance.
Sikandar Raza’s Heroic Finish
Sikandar Raza emerged as the match-winner, striking the decisive runs just 10 minutes after arriving from England. The Zimbabwean all-rounder, fresh from a Test match in Nottingham, smashed 22* off 14 balls, including two sixes. His fearless batting in the final over secured Lahore’s victory, earning him a celebratory shoulder ride from teammates.
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Kusal Perera’s Explosive Knock
Sri Lankan batsman Kusal Perera played a pivotal role, scoring an unbeaten 62 off 31 balls. His aggressive innings, featuring five boundaries and four sixes, kept Lahore’s chase alive. Partnering with Raza in a crucial 59-run stand, Perera ensured the team stayed on track for the record-breaking chase.
Strong Contributions from Openers
Openers Mohammad Naeem (46) and Abdullah Shafique (41) provided a solid foundation. Naeem’s power-hitting, including six sixes, set the tone early. Shafique’s composed innings ensured Lahore maintained momentum, keeping the required run rate within reach despite losing wickets at key moments.
Quetta’s Competitive Total
Quetta Gladiators posted a formidable 201-9, thanks to Hasan Nawaz’s brilliant 76. The opener rescued his team from early trouble, forming key partnerships with Avishka Fernando (29) and Dinesh Chandimal (22). Faheem Ashraf’s late cameo (28) pushed Quetta past 200, but it wasn’t enough against Lahore’s determined batting lineup.
Shaheen’s Bowling Brilliance
Despite conceding runs, Shaheen Afridi was Lahore’s standout bowler, taking 3-24. His crucial breakthroughs restricted Quetta’s scoring, proving his value as both captain and strike bowler. The disciplined bowling attack ensured Quetta didn’t post an insurmountable total.
A Thrilling Final Over
Needing 13 runs off the last over, Raza delivered under pressure. A six and a four sealed the victory, sparking wild celebrations. Lahore’s triumph showcased their resilience, making them the first team to win three PSL titles and setting a new benchmark in T20 cricket.
PSL X Final: Lahore Qalandars vs. Quetta Gladiators – Match Analytics
| Category | Lahore Qalandars | Quetta Gladiators | Record / Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Result | Won by 6 wickets (1 ball left) | Lost after scoring 200+ | Highest successful chase (202) in a T20 final |
| Total Score | 202/4 (19.5 overs) | 201/9 (20 overs) | First time a team lost a T20 final after scoring 200+ |
| Top Scorer | Kusal Perera (62* off 31) | Hasan Nawaz (76 off 47) | Perera’s explosive knock anchored the chase |
| Best Bowler | Shaheen Afridi (3/24) | Mohammad Wasim Jr. (2/25) | Shaheen’s key wickets restricted Quetta |
| Partnership | 59* (Perera & Raza) | 67 (Nawaz & Fernando) | Unbroken 5th-wicket stand sealed the win |
| Strike Rate (Top 3) | Perera (200), Naeem (191) | Nawaz (161), Ashraf (200) | Lahore’s aggressive batting outmatched Quetta |
| Sixes Hit | 13 | 10 | Naeem alone hit 6 sixes |
| Final Over Drama | 13 needed – Raza hit 6+4 | Conceded 12 runs | First time a 200+ target was chased in a PSL final |
| Captaincy Milestone | Shaheen – 3 PSL titles | Sarfaraz Ahmed – 1 title | Shaheen became the most successful PSL captain |
Conclusion: A Night to Remember
Lahore Qalandars’ record-breaking chase will be etched in PSL folklore. From Shaheen’s leadership to Raza’s heroics, every player contributed to this historic win. The match exemplified the excitement of T20 cricket, leaving fans in awe and cementing Lahore’s legacy as one of the league’s greatest teams.
