LAHORE: Daryl Mitchell produced a sensational all-round display to steer Lahore Qalandars to a memorable five-wicket triumph against Multan Sultans in the 16th match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday.
Chasing a competitive 186-run target set by Multan Sultans, Lahore Qalandars sealed victory with six balls to spare, much to the delight of the lively Lahore crowd.
The chase began on a shaky note for Lahore when Mohammad Naeem fell early for just six runs, dismissed by Multan’s pacer Josh Little with only 12 runs on the board. However, Fakhar Zaman and Abdullah Shafique stitched together a steady 33-run stand, attempting to stabilise Lahore’s innings. Fakhar, after a brisk 28 off 22 balls featuring three boundaries and two sixes, was dismissed immediately after the powerplay by Multan’s Mohammad Hasnain.
Building on the platform, Abdullah partnered with Daryl Mitchell to add 49 crucial runs. Yet, Multan struck back through Ubaid Shah, who removed both Shafique and Sam Billings in quick succession, reducing Lahore to 95/4 after 12 overs. Shafique contributed a handy 34 off 25 balls with two fours and two sixes.
At this point, Lahore needed composure, and it was Mitchell alongside Sikandar Raza who answered the call. The duo combined for a blistering 89-run partnership that completely shifted momentum back in Lahore’s favour. Mitchell was the standout performer, smashing a fluent 64 off just 38 balls, hitting four fours and four sixes, before falling just before the finish line. Sikandar Raza kept his nerve to guide Lahore home with an unbeaten 40 off 21 balls.
For Multan, Ubaid Shah led the bowling effort with two wickets, while Hasnain, Akif Javed, and Josh Little picked up a wicket each.
Earlier, Multan Sultans opted to bat first after Lahore won the toss and invited them to set a target. Captain Mohammad Rizwan anchored Multan’s innings with a brilliant unbeaten 76 off 48 balls, supported by Kamran Ghulam’s fiery 52 not out off 31 deliveries. Together, they built a formidable 115-run partnership that powered Multan to 185/3.
Despite Multan’s solid effort, Lahore’s spirited chase, spearheaded by Mitchell, ensured a thrilling finish in Lahore, reaffirming their stronghold at home against a determined Multan side.