The Quetta Gladiators continued their winning streak in PSL 9, overpowering the Lahore Qalandars by five wickets on Monday night at the Gaddafi Stadium. This victory marks their second consecutive win in the tournament, highlighting their newfound momentum and ability to overcome challenges.
Khawaja Nafay Shines with Unbeaten Fifty
Youngster Khawaja Nafay, playing in just his second PSL game, stole the show with a dominant unbeaten half-century. Stepping up at number three, he navigated the Qalandars’ bowling attack with composure, striking four boundaries and three towering sixes in his rapid 60-run knock. His innings played a pivotal role in chasing down the challenging 188-run target set by Lahore.
Early Openers, Steady Middle Order
The Gladiators’ chase began with a solid start from their opening pair of Saud Shakeel and Jason Roy. They stitched together a fifty-run partnership within the powerplay, providing a strong platform for the middle order. However, wickets fell at regular intervals, requiring Nafay to anchor the chase and guide his team to victory.
Lahore’s Innings: Brief Sparks, Quetta’s Bowling Holds Strong
Lahore Qalandars, opting to bat first, posted a respectable total of 187 runs. While Sahibzada Farhan impressed with a fifty and Jahandad Khan provided a late flourish, Quetta’s bowlers kept the pressure on throughout the innings. Mohammad Hasnain and Akeal Hosein picked up two wickets each, while Mohammad Amir and Wasim Jnr chipped in with crucial dismissals.
Turning Point: Abrar Ahmed’s Crucial Wicket
Abrar Ahmed’s introduction in the seventh over proved to be a game-changer for Quetta. He dismissed the dangerous Rassie van der Dussen, shifting the momentum in their favor. This dismissal put pressure on Lahore’s middle order, eventually restricting their final score.
Nafay’s Heroics Seal the Win
With wickets falling around him, Nafay displayed remarkable composure. He absorbed the pressure and capitalized on scoring opportunities, bringing up his maiden PSL fifty in style. Chasing down the target with five balls to spare, Nafay’s unbeaten knock was the defining factor in Quetta’s victory.
Scores in brief:
Lahore Qalandars 187-7, 20 overs (Sahibzada Farhan 62, Jahandad Khan 45 not out; Akeal Hosein 2-17)
Quetta Gladiators 188-5, 19.1 overs (Khawaja Nafay 60 not out, Saud Shakeel 40; Sikandar Raza 1-25)
Result: Quetta Gladiators beat Lahore Qalandars by five wickets
Player of the match – Khawaja Nafay (Quetta Gladiators)
Tomorrow’s fixture: Multan Sultan vs Islamabad United, Multan Cricket Stadium, Multan (7pm)
