The Quetta Gladiators roared into PSL 9 with a thrilling 16-run victory over Peshawar Zalmi in a match packed with big-hitting and nail-biting moments. Chasing a mammoth 207 set by Quetta, Zalmi fell short despite a valiant effort.
Saud Shakeel Shines on Debut, Powers Quetta’s Batting Onslaught:
Making his PSL debut, Saud Shakeel stole the show with a blistering 74, while the experienced Jason Roy smashed 75. Their 157-run opening stand, the joint-third highest in PSL history, laid the foundation for Quetta’s massive total. Rilee Rossouw and Sherfane Rutherford chipped in with valuable cameos to propel the score past 200.
Zalmi’s Chase Falters Despite Strong Start:
Peshawar Zalmi began their chase with intent, with Saim Ayub and Babar Azam putting on a solid 91-run stand. However, Abrar Ahmed’s two crucial wickets pegged them back, and despite Rovman Powell’s late cameo, they fell short in the final overs.
Abrar Ahmed Stars with Ball for Quetta:
Returning from injury, Abrar Ahmed displayed exceptional control, conceding just 29 runs and taking two key wickets, including Babar Azam, who became the first batter to reach 3000 runs in PSL history. Mohammad Amir, Akeal Hosein, and Mohammad Hasnain also played their part with a wicket each.
Scores in brief:
Quetta Gladiators 206-5, 20 overs (Jason Roy 75, Saud Shakeel 74; Salman Irshad 3-38)
Peshawar Zalmi 190-6, 20 overs (Babar Azam 68, Saim Ayub 42; Abrar Ahmed 2-29, Mohammad Amir 1-29)
Result: Quetta Gladiators beat Peshawar Zalmi by 16 runs
Player of the match – Saud Shakeel (Quetta Gladiators)
Tomorrow’s match: Lahore Qalandars vs Quetta Gladiators, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore (7 pm)
