Lahore Qalandars knock out Karachi Kings in PSL Eliminator Clash
The Pakistan Super League served up a thrilling knockout encounter as Lahore Qalandars eliminated Karachi Kings with a commanding 6-wicket win. Chasing 191, Lahore crossed the finish line with 8 balls to spare, powered by a brilliant knock from Abdullah Shafique. With this win, Lahore now moves forward to challenge Islamabad United for a place in the PSL final.
Match Summary: Lahore Qalandars win by 6 wickets
Karachi Kings batted first and posted a competitive total of 190/8 on a batting-friendly surface. David Warner anchored the innings with a gritty 75, but he found little support from the other end. Lahore’s bowling unit, however, rose to the occasion with a collective performance. Haris Rauf shone at the death with 3/35, while Shaheen Afridi made a strong comeback to claim two vital wickets.
In reply, Lahore’s batting lineup looked composed and in control. Abdullah Shafique led the chase with a blazing 65* off just 35 deliveries, guiding his team home without panic.
Shafique’s calm brilliance seals the win
Abdullah was the standout performer and was rightly named Player of the Match. His unbeaten 65 was a masterclass in pacing a chase. He built partnerships smartly, especially with Fakhar Zaman (47 off 28) and Kusal Perera (30 off 24), ensuring Lahore maintained the required run rate throughout the innings.
Karachi Kings: Strong start, poor finish
Karachi began well with the bat, riding on Warner’s fine half-century. But the middle and lower order failed to build meaningful partnerships. Under the mounting pressure of Lahore’s disciplined bowling, Karachi collapsed in the death overs. Despite reaching 190, it felt short of par due to Lahore’s control in the latter half. In the field, Karachi struggled.Their bowlers lacked consistency and clarity in their plans, particularly during the middle overs.
Aside from Hasan Ali, who picked up two wickets and tried to fight back, no other bowler made a serious impact. Fielding errors piled on their problems—dropped catches and misfields drained the team’s energy and momentum. Once the partnership between Abdullah and Kusal gained steam, Karachi’s morale visibly dipped. Shoulders dropped, energy levels waned, and hope gave way to resignation.
What’s next: Lahore Qalandars to face Islamabad United
Lahore Qalandars now shift their focus to a crucial clash against Islamabad United. With form on their side and momentum building, they appear well-equipped for the challenge.Their bowling is firing, their batters are peaking, and the team looks united.
Unfortunately, for Karachi Kings, it’s another heartbreak—an exit that will sting. With lessons to learn in strategy, execution, and mindset, they’ll need to rebuild and refocus for the next season.
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