All-round Qalandars crush United to reach PSL X final

Lahore Qalandars secured a comprehensive 95-run victory over Islamabad United in Eliminator 2 of the tenth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL X) at the Gaddafi Stadium on Friday, booking their place in Sunday’s final against Quetta Gladiators.

Batting first after winning the toss, the Qalandars posted a formidable total of 202 for 6. Mohammad Naeem led the charge with a fluent 50 featuring seven fours and two sixes, supported by Abdullah Shafique’s 25. Kusal Perera smashed 61 off just 35 balls, while Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Asif Ali contributed 22 and 15 runs respectively. Shakib Al Hasan (0) and Rishad Hossain (5) remained unbeaten at the end of the innings.

For United, Tymal Mills picked up 3 for 42, Salman Irshad took 2 for 40, while Imad Wasim and James Neesham claimed a wicket apiece. Shadab Khan and Salman Ali Agha remained wicketless.

In reply, Islamabad United collapsed for 107 in under 16 overs. Only Salman Ali Agha (33) and Shadab Khan (26) showed resistance, as the rest of the batting line-up faltered. Sahibzada Farhan (3), Muhammad Shahzad (0), Rassie van der Dussen (7), Imad Wasim (8), James Neesham (8), Haider Ali (4), Naseem Shah (0), and Tymal Mills (7) failed to reach double figures. Salman Irshad remained not out without scoring.

The Qalandars’ bowling unit delivered a clinical performance. Shaheen Shah Afridi took 3 wickets for just 3 runs, while Salman Mirza (3-16) and Rishad Hossain (3-34) each grabbed three wickets to dismantle the opposition.

With this commanding win, Lahore Qalandars advanced to the PSL X final where they will meet Quetta Gladiators on Sunday at the same venue.