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PSL 11 Thriller unfolded at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Tuesday as Lahore Qalandars held their nerve in a gripping last-over finish to defeat Quetta Gladiators by nine runs in one of the most intense matches of the season.
The high-scoring contest saw Lahore post a formidable 197-6 before restricting Quetta to 188-7, despite a spirited chase led by their top order.
Fakhar Zaman Powers Qalandars
Lahore Qalandars’ innings was anchored by a sensational century from Fakhar Zaman, who delivered a commanding performance under pressure. After an early setback with the dismissal of Mohammad Farooq, Fakhar steadied the innings alongside Abdullah Shafique. Related coverage: Fakhar Zaman ball tampering controversy — full report on Pulse Pakistan
The pair built a solid platform before Fakhar accelerated, showcasing aggressive stroke play across all areas of the ground. He brought up his half-century in style and continued to dominate the Gladiators’ bowling attack.
Fakhar later formed a crucial 96-run partnership with Charith Asalanka, pushing Lahore beyond the 150-run mark. His remarkable innings of 103 off 51 balls, featuring 11 boundaries and six sixes, proved to be the backbone of the total.
Asalanka contributed a valuable 31, while late cameos from Daniel Sams helped Lahore finish strongly at 197-6.
Gladiators’ Strong Chase Falls Short
In response, Quetta Gladiators started confidently, with openers Shamyl Hussain and Saud Shakeel laying a solid foundation. Their 49-run opening stand set the tone before Sikandar Raza broke through.
Shamyl continued his impressive form, crafting a well-paced 53 off 31 balls. He found an able partner in Rilee Rossouw, who played a blistering knock to keep Quetta firmly in the hunt.
Rossouw’s aggressive 62 off just 29 deliveries brought the required rate within reach, and at one stage, the Gladiators looked favourites to clinch the PSL 11 thriller.
However, a crucial run-out of Shamyl and quick wickets in the middle overs shifted momentum back to Lahore.
Bowling Decides the PSL 11 Thriller
Lahore’s bowling unit stepped up under pressure, with Haris Rauf delivering a match-defining spell. His disciplined bowling in the death overs proved decisive.
Shaheen Afridi and Ubaid Shah also made key breakthroughs, ensuring the Gladiators never fully regained control.
With 19 runs needed in the final over, Rauf held his composure, conceding just nine runs to seal the victory in this PSL 11 thriller.
Abrar Ahmed fought till the end with an unbeaten 24, but the target ultimately proved just out of reach.
Key Performances
Fakhar Zaman’s century stood out as the defining contribution, setting up the match-winning total. For Quetta, Rossouw and Shamyl’s half-centuries kept the contest alive, but Lahore’s disciplined bowling attack ensured a narrow victory.
The result strengthens Lahore Qalandars’ position in the tournament, while Quetta Gladiators are left to reflect on missed opportunities in a closely fought encounter.
