Karachi, March 10, 2024 – In a nail-biting clash at the National Stadium Karachi, Quetta Gladiators emerged victorious against Lahore Qalandars in the 28th match of Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 9. The Gladiators secured a stunning win, chasing down the target of 167 runs in the final over, marking a spectacular end to a riveting contest.
Having won the toss, Lahore Qalandars opted to bat first, setting a challenging target of 167 runs. Abdullah Shafique’s unbeaten 59-run innings in just 39 balls anchored Lahore’s innings, with Shaheen Afridi and Shaibzada Farhan contributing 55 runs and 25 runs, respectively. The Qalandars posted a respectable total of 166 runs for the loss of four wickets in their allotted 20 overs.
Quetta Gladiators’ bowlers displayed their prowess, with Abrar Ahmad being the standout performer. Ahmad claimed two crucial wickets, conceding 31 runs in his four overs. Mohammad Wasim Junior and Mohammad Amir also made notable contributions, taking one wicket each and restricting Lahore Qalandars from posting an even more formidable total.
Chasing down the target, Quetta Gladiator’s innings unfolded with a mix of tension and excitement. The Gladiators faced stiff competition from the Qalandars’ bowlers, with Jahandad Khan and Shaheen Afridi taking two wickets each. However, it was Saud Shakeel’s heroic batting display that turned the tide in Quetta’s favor.
Saud Shakeel, the star of the match, showcased exemplary resilience and skill, scoring an unbeaten 88 runs in just 65 balls. His innings included crucial boundaries to seal the victory for Quetta Gladiators. Shakeel’s remarkable performance earned him the well-deserved title of Player of the Match.
Khawaja Nafay and Jason Roy also contributed 28 runs and 18 runs, respectively, in the successful run chase, as the Gladiators managed to reach the target in the nick of time. The thrilling encounter kept fans on the edge of their seats until the last ball, epitomizing the essence of T20 cricket.
The Quetta Gladiators’ dressing room erupted in jubilation as they celebrated the epic win, while Lahore Qalandars were left ruing missed opportunities. The match will undoubtedly go down as one of the highlights of PSL Season 9, adding to the excitement and unpredictability that fans have come to expect from this premier T20 tournament.
As the tournament progresses, both teams will be looking to build on this thrilling encounter and maintain their momentum in the quest for PSL glory. With the stakes high and the competition fierce, the cricketing world eagerly anticipates more spectacular clashes in the remaining matches of PSL Season 9.
