Lahore Qalandars faced another setback in the PSL 2025 as Peshawar Zalmi secured a convincing seven-wicket victory, denting Lahore’s playoff aspirations. Playing at home, the Qalandars struggled both with the bat and ball, suffering their second consecutive defeat in the tournament.
Batting first after being put in by Peshawar Zalmi, Lahore Qalandars endured a disastrous start. The top order crumbled inside the powerplay, reduced to 21 for 4, courtesy of some fiery bowling by Alzarri Joseph and Luke Wood. Joseph claimed 3 wickets for just 15 runs, while Wood contributed with 2 for 25, dismantling Lahore’s hopes early. Despite the collapse, Sikandar Raza showed resilience, scoring 52 runs off 37 balls, including five fours and three sixes. His efforts helped Lahore post a modest total of 129 before being bowled out in the final over.
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In response, Peshawar Zalmi chased down the target with ease, reaching 130 for 3 in just 16.4 overs. Although Lahore made early inroads by removing Saim Ayub and Tom Kohler-Cadmore cheaply, Babar Azam led from the front with an unbeaten 56 off 42 balls. He was well-supported by Hussain Talat, who remained not out on 51 off 37 deliveries. Their 93-run partnership for the fourth wicket ensured a smooth finish for Zalmi. Mohammad Haris also added a quick 20 before falling to Shaheen Afridi, who was the pick of the bowlers for Lahore with figures of 2 for 22.
The defeat leaves Lahore Qalandars with 2 wins from 5 matches, tied with Peshawar Zalmi on 4 points, but ahead on net run rate. Islamabad United continues to lead the PSL 2025 standings with 5 wins from 5 games, followed by Karachi Kings. With Quetta Gladiators and Multan Sultans still in the hunt, Lahore will need to bounce back quickly to remain in playoff contention.
