PSL 10, Match 23: Quetta Gladiators stun Islamabad in nail-biter

PSL 10, Match 23: Quetta Gladiators stun Islamabad in nail-biter

Lahore, May 3, 2025 – In one of the most electrifying matches of PSL 10, the Quetta Gladiators edged out Islamabad United in a pulsating final-over finish during Match 23 at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. The tension-filled contest kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very last delivery, as Quetta snatched a dramatic two-wicket victory.

Winning the toss and electing to field first, the Gladiators unleashed a fiery bowling attack that kept Islamabad under constant pressure. Despite the heat, Islamabad United managed to post a total of 157/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Mohammad Nawaz top-scored with a gritty 49 off 34 balls, while Sahibzada Farhan chipped in with a brisk 39 from 24. Kyle Mayers also added a useful 22 off 17 deliveries.

But it was the Gladiators’ bowling that set the tone early. Faheem Ashraf delivered a game-changing spell, grabbing 4 wickets for just 25 runs in 3 overs, rattling Islamabad’s batting order. Saud Shakeel and Abrar Ahmed supported with one wicket apiece, ensuring Islamabad never built lasting momentum.

Chasing a target of 158, Quetta Gladiators faced their own hurdles. The pressure intensified as wickets fell at regular intervals, but dropped catches and sloppy fielding from Islamabad United kept the chase alive. Hero of the night, Hassan Nawaz, played a sensational unbeaten knock of 64 off 41 balls, guiding Quetta home in 19.5 overs. Rilee Rossouw contributed 27, while Finn Allen added a quickfire 20.

Islamabad’s bowling effort was led by Salman Irshad and Naseem Shah, who took two wickets each, while Agha Salman claimed one. Despite their efforts, Islamabad couldn’t contain the late surge by Quetta’s lower order.

This high-octane win keeps the Gladiators firmly in playoff contention and deals a heavy blow to Islamabad United, who now face a tougher path forward. With momentum on their side, Quetta will be looking to carry this fighting spirit into their remaining fixtures, while Islamabad must regroup quickly if they hope to stay in the title race.