Lahore Qalandars Knock Out Zalmi to Enter PSL 2025 Playoffs
In a rain-shortened, high-stakes game, Lahore Qalandars defeated Peshawar Zalmi by 26 runs and qualified for the PSL 2025 playoffs. It was a do-or-die match for both teams.The winner would move to the playoffs.The loser would be eliminated. Lahore rose to the occasion at Pindi Stadium. Peshawar Zalmi, led by Babar Azam, fell short and are now out of the tournament.
Fakhar Zaman Lead Lahore Qalandars with the Bat
Lahore Qalandars batted first and posted a strong 149/8 in 13 overs. Fakhar Zaman delivered when it mattered the most. He scored a brilliant 60 off 36 balls. His controlled aggression gave Lahore the upper hand early on. Muhammad Naeem added a fiery 22 off just 10 deliveries. Asif Ali smashed 18 off 6 balls to provide a late surge. Peshawar bowlers kept trying to pull things back. Daniel Sams took 2/28. Ahmed Daniyal and Ali Raza both grabbed two wickets each.
Salman Mirza Destroyed Zalmi’s Batting Line-up
Lahore Qalandars’ bowling unit stepped up under pressure. Salman Mirza turned out to be the game-changer. He bagged 4 wickets for 31 runs in just 3 overs and was rightly named Player of the Match. Shaheen Afridi bowled with pace and control, taking 2 wickets for only 19 runs. Sikandar Raza bowled one over and picked up an important wicket of Babar Azam while giving away just 7 runs. Zalmi’s chase never took off. Daniel Sams lately scored 26* (14), and Ahmed Daniyal hit 24 (14). Abdul Samad added 17, but the rest failed to contribute meaningfully.
A Knockout Blow for Babar Azam’s Zalmi
This was a must-win match for both sides. The result decided the final playoff spots. Lahore Qalandars won and secured qualification. Peshawar Zalmi, despite Babar Azam’s leadership, are eliminated from PSL 2025.The loss is a massive blow for Zalmi fans. They showed promise throughout the tournament but couldn’t hold their nerve when it mattered most.
The Top Four Teams for PSL 2025 Playoffs
With this result, the playoff picture is now complete. The four teams to qualify are:
- Quetta Gladiators
- Karachi Kings
- Lahore Qalandars
- Islamabad United
Multan Sultans and Peshawar Zalmi are officially out of PSL 2025. The playoff stage promises high drama with four strong teams ready to clash for the trophy.
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