#babar_azam

Root’s second term as England Test captain begins with commanding win over Pakistan England secured a dominant victory over Pakistan by an innings and 103 runs in their opening Test of the series, taking a 1-0 lead in the home campaign. The result also bolstered England’s position in the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 standings, while Pakistan fell to the bottom of the table with a point percentage of 19.05. Joe Root’s leadership was evident as England’s team executed a comprehensive performance, dominating all facets of the game. Pakistan, missing regular skipper Babar Azam due to injury, struggled from the outset. The hosts bowled the visitors out for 171 after being asked to bat first, with Ollie Robinson (5/51) and Josh Tongue (5/46) playing key roles in dismantling their top order. Ali Usman’s 5/95 further compounded Pakistan’s woes, leaving them in a precarious position. England’s first innings set the tone for the match, with the middle order delivering a collective performance. Jordan Cox (73), Joe Root (66), Harry Brook (91), and Dan Lawrence (51) combined to build a formidable total, giving the hosts a 238-run lead by the third day. The declaration at 438/7 set a daunting target for Pakistan, who failed to respond effectively. Pakistan’s second innings followed a similar pattern, with England’s bowlers maintaining their intensity. Jofra Archer (3/50) and Ollie Robinson (3/29) struck early blows, while Josh Tongue (3/43) disrupted the middle order. Despite crossing the 100-run mark, Pakistan’s tail collapsed under relentless pressure. Robinson finished with figures of 8/80, with Mohammad Rizwan’s 41 being the only notable resistance. The victory marked a strong start to Root’s second tenure as full-time captain, with his team showcasing maturity and discipline.#pakistan #england #babar_azam #joe_root #icc_world_test_championship

Babar Azam Out for First Test; Salman Agha Named Captain for Pakistan Babar Azam will miss the first Test against England after sustaining an injury during a warm-up match in Beckenham. The injury occurred during a practice session, and the Pakistan captain is expected to be sidelined for the series opener in Leeds. In his absence, Salman Agha has been appointed as the new captain for the ICC World Test Championship series. Pakistan’s head coach, Sarfaraz Ahmed, expressed disappointment over Azam’s injury but remained optimistic about Agha’s leadership capabilities. “Our practice match went really good. We covered all our bases in terms of preparation as a bowling and batting unit both and also won that warm-up game. The spirits are quite high and I have a belief in the whole team that we will do well here,” Sarfaraz stated. He also acknowledged the unfortunate nature of Azam’s injury, noting that the left-handed batsman was hit on the hand. “Hopefully, he will be back for the second match,” Sarfaraz added. The Pakistan team is currently on a three-Test tour of England, with the series serving as the opening fixture of the ICC World Test Championship. The visitors, ranked eighth in the WTC standings, arrived in England following a 1-1 series draw against the West Indies. Over six matches in the current cycle, Pakistan has secured two Test victories and suffered four losses, maintaining a win percentage of 22.22. England, ranked seventh in the standings, have recorded four wins in 13 Tests during the same cycle. The hosts are currently preparing for their next series after a 2-1 home defeat to New Zealand.#england #babar_azam #salman_aghaz #icc_world_test_championship #sarfaraz_ahmed

Pakistan Omit Mohammad Abbas in Second Test Amid Conditions Concerns Pakistan’s decision to bench Mohammad Abbas for the second Test against the West Indies sparked widespread speculation, with captain Babar Azam attributing the move to the nature of the pitch. The omission of Abbas, their most effective bowler in the first Test, overshadowed other selection changes, as the team sought to adapt to the conditions of the venue. Abbas, who had delivered a five-wicket haul in the opening Test, was left out despite his consistent performance over the past year, including eight wickets in the first match. Babar clarified that the decision was not due to any injury or form issues but rather the state of the pitch. He stated that the slow, low-paced surface would have diminished Abbas’s effectiveness, especially since the team opted to include two spinners—Sajid Khan—in the XI. Abbas, known for his ability to exploit pace and movement, typically operates in the mid-120s range, and the team likely felt a slower wicket would further reduce his impact. In contrast, Pakistan introduced Ubaid Shah, a fast bowler making his Test debut, and retained Mohammad Ali as the sole other seamer. However, Ali’s pace remains relatively low, with a ceiling of around 130s, making Abbas the clear choice in a direct comparison. Since his return to the team in December 2024, Abbas has been Pakistan’s most prolific pace bowler in Tests, taking 28 wickets at an average of 20.32. His economy rate of 2.86 has also been significantly better than Ali’s 3.63. Abbas’s adaptability to different conditions has been a key factor in his success. In six Tests in the UAE, he has taken 27 wickets at an average of 17.55, his best performance in any nation where he has played multiple Tests.#pakistan #west_indies #babar_azam #mohammad_abbas #sajid_khan

Pakistan Drop Shaheen, Hasan and Noman for West Indies and England Tests Babar Azam has been reinstated as Pakistan’s Test captain, succeeding Shan Masood, who had led the team since December 2023. Azam’s return to the role marks a significant shift in leadership, with his first assignments as captain set to include a two-Test tour of the West Indies followed by a three-Test series in England. Masood, however, remains part of the squad, retaining his place in the 16-player group for the upcoming fixtures. The squad changes are notable, with senior fast bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi, Hasan Ali, and Noman Ali all omitted from the touring party. Saud Shakeel, who missed the Bangladesh series due to fitness concerns, has been included in the England Test squad but is not traveling to the West Indies. The decision to drop the trio reflects concerns over their performance and the selectors’ focus on addressing pace issues in the team’s fast-bowling attack. Mohammad Ali and Aamir Jamal have been recalled to the squad, while young fast bowler Ubaid Shah, the youngest of the Shah brothers, and left-arm spinner Ali Usman have earned maiden call-ups. Awais Zafar, a right-hand middle-order batter, has also been added to the squad, replacing Shakeel. The inclusion of these players underscores the selectors’ emphasis on rejuvenating the pace battery and introducing fresh talent. Pakistan’s current position in the World Test Championship standings—bottom of the nine-team table with just one win from four matches—has prompted the selectors to prioritize a new-look pace attack. The previous pace battery, comprising Shaheen, Hasan, Mohammad Abbas, and Khurram Shahzad, faced criticism for declining speeds during the Bangladesh series.#babar_azam #shaheen_shah_afridi #shah_masood #hasan_ali #noman_ali

Babar Azam Returns as Pakistan's Test Captain with Focus on Discipline, Fitness, and Performance Babar Azam has been named Pakistan's Test captain for the second time in his career, marking a significant shift in the team's leadership structure following a challenging period under Shan Masood. The decision comes after Pakistan's dismal performance in the World Test Championship cycle, where the team finished at the bottom of the table with only one win in four matches. Azam, who previously led the side to 10 Test victories in 20 matches, aims to rebuild the team's fortunes with a renewed emphasis on discipline, fitness, and performance. His return to the role is expected to coincide with a strategic overhaul of the squad, particularly in the bowling department, as Pakistan seeks to address its long-standing struggles in the format. Azam's reappointment follows a period of poor results under Masood, who took over the captaincy in 2024. During Masood's tenure, Pakistan suffered 12 defeats in 16 Tests, including a 2-0 series loss to Bangladesh and a lack of success in away tours. The team's recent performance has been marred by inconsistent bowling, with fast bowlers failing to generate the required pace and movement. To rectify this, selectors have made sweeping changes to the squad, dropping experienced fast bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi, Hasan Ali, and Noman Ali. These departures have been offset by the inclusion of younger, less-tested options such as Ubaid Shah, Aamir Jamal, and Mohammad Ali, who has been playing in English county cricket. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has also prioritized fitness and mental preparation, organizing a month-long summer camp at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore.#west_indies #babar_azam #pakistan_cricket_board #national_cricket_academy #shah_masood

Pakistan's Masood Confident in Bowling as Test Series Against Bangladesh Begins Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood has expressed confidence in the team's bowling attack ahead of the first Test against Bangladesh in Mirpur, marking the start of a two-match series. The Green Shirts are set to face the Bengal Tigers in their home conditions after a recent whitewash on home soil by Bangladesh in August 2024. The visitors had previously won the two-match series by 10 wickets and six wickets in Rawalpindi, but the current series presents a new challenge. Speaking at a pre-series press conference on Thursday, Masood emphasized the team's focus on the upcoming series and the unique challenges posed by Bangladesh's home conditions. "We are fully focused on this series and the challenge of playing Bangladesh in their own conditions," he stated. Masood also highlighted the strength of the home side's "quality in all departments," acknowledging the need for Pakistan to adapt to the local environment. The Pakistan squad, which includes experienced players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Abbas, is preparing to test itself against Bangladesh. Masood praised the team's balanced squad, noting their ability to perform in both seam-friendly and spin-friendly conditions. "We have selected a well-balanced squad that can perform in different conditions," he said. "The players have experience of playing in various environments, so we are confident about the options available to us." Masood reiterated the importance of taking 20 wickets in Test cricket as a key to success. "In Test cricket, taking 20 wickets remains the key to success," he added. The captain also stressed the importance of collective performance across batting, bowling, and fielding.#babar_azam #taskin_ahmed #mirpur #shan_masood #najmul_hossain_shanto

Babar Azam and Aaron Hardie Power Peshawar Zalmi to PSL Final with Dominant Qualifier Win Peshawar Zalmi secured their place in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) final with a resounding 70-run victory over Islamabad United in a qualifier match on April 28, 2026. The match, held in Karachi, saw Babar Azam deliver a scintillating century, while Aaron Hardie and Sufiyan Muqeem dismantled Islamabad’s batting lineup to seal a comprehensive win. Zalmi’s triumph marked their return to the PSL final since 2019, ending a four-year drought. Zalmi’s innings was anchored by Babar’s 103 off 59 balls, complemented by Kusal Mendis’ 41 and Mohammad Haris’ aggressive powerplay contributions. The duo’s partnership, along with Mendis’ late surge, helped Zalmi post a formidable total of 221 for 7. Islamabad United, despite a strong start with Sameer Minhas scoring 44, struggled to keep up with the pace, eventually being bowled out for 151. Hardie’s bowling, particularly in the death overs, proved decisive as he claimed 3 wickets, while Muqeem’s sharp fielding and Sufiyan’s accuracy dismantled the United middle order. The match unfolded with Zalmi’s attacking approach from the outset. Mohammad Haris, known for his fearless style, smashed 35 runs off 16 balls in the powerplay, setting the tone for a high-scoring innings. Babar, who had previously been held back in his T20 development, showcased his maturity by maintaining a steady run rate and anchoring the innings. His 12 runs off Imad Wasim’s final over, including a boundary, brought up his half-century and set the stage for a record-breaking chase. Mendis, initially cautious, found his rhythm in the middle overs, scoring 41 off 26 balls. His partnership with Babar, which included a 100-run stand, kept Zalmi in control despite some early resistance from Islamabad’s bowlers.#babar_azam #karachi #peshawar_zalmi #islamabad_united #aaron_hardie

Babar Azam Breaks T20 Century Record as Captain, Joins Elite Group with Virat Kohli and Abhishek Sharma Babar Azam delivered a standout performance in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) as he smashed a commanding century to guide Peshawar Zalmi into the final. Leading from the front, the Pakistan captain struck a remarkable 103 off 59 deliveries during a crucial Qualifier match against Islamabad United in Karachi. His innings, featuring 12 boundaries and four sixes, propelled Zalmi to a formidable total of 221/7 on a challenging surface. Islamabad United struggled to keep up, eventually being bowled out for 151, securing a comprehensive victory for Zalmi. Azam’s century not only solidified his status as a top performer but also marked his fourth hundred in the PSL, tying him with Usman Khan for the most centuries in the tournament’s history. His consistency this season has been exceptional, with his total of 588 runs matching the record for the highest individual score in a single PSL edition, previously held by Fakhar Zaman in 2022. This achievement underscores his dominance in the competition. On a broader scale, Azam etched his name into T20 history by surpassing Faf du Plessis as the player with the most centuries scored by a captain in the format. His ninth T20 hundred as skipper places him at the forefront of the record books, with du Plessis previously holding the mark at eight. Azam’s milestone highlights his leadership and batting prowess under pressure, as he continues to set benchmarks in the shortest format of the game. The Pakistan skipper’s performance was further amplified by his contribution to the team’s success. Alongside Mohammad Haris, Kusal Mendis, and Aaron Hardie, Azam ensured a steady scoring rate throughout the innings.#babar_azam #karachi #virat_kohli #peshawar_zalmi #islamabad_united

Babar, Mendis Eye Fakhar’s PSL Milestone Peshawar Zalmi’s Babar Azam and Kusal Mendis are on a historic trajectory in the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL), with their combined efforts threatening to break the record set by Fakhar Zaman. As of May 17, 2025, Mendis leads the individual run tally with 413, while Babar trails closely at 401, creating a significant gap between them and the rest of the competition. Their dominance has propelled Zalmi to the top of the points table, with 15 points from eight matches, and has sparked intense speculation about whether they can surpass Fakhar’s 588-run milestone from the 2021-22 season. Fakhar’s record, achieved during his tenure with Lahore Qalandars, remains a benchmark for batting excellence in the PSL. However, Zalmi’s near-certain qualification for the playoffs suggests at least five more matches are in store, providing the duo with ample opportunity to rewrite history. Babar, in particular, has entered a purple patch, averaging over 100 runs per innings, a testament to his composure and ability to deliver under pressure. Mendis, though slightly behind in average at just under 60, has been equally destructive, combining power with precision to dismantle opposition defenses. Their partnership has also contributed to Zalmi’s success, with the pair accumulating 557 runs together, including three century partnerships. This places them in contention for the highest partnership total in a single PSL season, currently held by Shan Masood and Mohammad Rizwan at 695. Meanwhile, the bowling department is witnessing its own battles, with Sufiyan Muqeem leading the wicket-taking charts at 17 scalps. Muqeem is on the verge of breaking Hasan Ali’s 25-wicket record, which has stood since the 2017-18 season.#babar_azam #fakhar_zaman #peshawar_zalmi #kusal_mendis #hbl_pakistan_super_league

PSZ vs MS PSL 2026 Live Streaming: When and Where to Watch Peshawar Zalmi vs Multan Sultans Match in India The 2026 Pakistan Super League (PSL) will feature a highly anticipated clash between Peshawar Zalmi and Multan Sultans on Monday, April 13, 2026. The match, scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM Indian Standard Time (IST) at the National Stadium, pits the top two teams in the league against each other. Peshawar Zalmi currently leads the points table, while Multan Sultans have secured four wins in their first five matches. The encounter promises to be a thrilling contest, given the strong form of both teams. Peshawar Zalmi, led by captain Babar Azam, has been in exceptional form, with standout performances from Kusal Mendis. The Sri Lankan batsman has recently scored a century and a score of over 90 runs, contributing significantly to the team’s success. Azam’s leadership and consistent contributions have solidified the team’s position at the top of the standings. Meanwhile, Multan Sultans, despite their second-place position, have demonstrated formidable batting and bowling capabilities. Their ability to secure four victories in five games highlights their competitive edge. The head-to-head record between the two teams adds to the intrigue of the match. Multan Sultans have historically dominated the rivalry, with 11 wins compared to Peshawar Zalmi’s seven. However, the current season’s dynamics suggest that the outcome could be unpredictable. Both teams are entering the match with high expectations, aiming to strengthen their positions in the league standings. Live streaming for the match is not available in India due to media rights restrictions, leaving Indian fans unable to watch the game officially.#babar_azam #pakistan_super_league #multan_sultans #peshawar_zalmi #kusal_mendis

Peshawar Zalmi and Multan Sultans Set for High-Stakes Clash in Karachi Peshawar Zalmi and Multan Sultans are set to face off in a pivotal encounter at the National Stadium in Karachi on April 13, 2026, as part of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 season. The match, scheduled for 7:30 PM IST, marks the 22nd fixture of the tournament and promises to be a defining moment in the competition. Both teams enter the clash with four wins each, positioning them at the top of the table and setting the stage for a battle for supremacy as the tournament heads toward its climax. Recent performances have highlighted the dominance of Peshawar Zalmi, who have remained undefeated this season. Their latest victory came against Lahore Qalandars, where they secured a commanding 159-run win. This follows a 76-run triumph over Karachi Kings and a 4-wicket victory against Hyderabad Kingsmen, showcasing their consistency and attacking prowess. Zalmi’s success has been built on a formidable top order led by Kusal Mendis, who has scored back-to-back fifties, and the reliability of Babar Azam, the team’s captain. Their bowling attack, featuring the pace of Nahid Rana and the craft of Michael Bracewell and Sufiyan Muqeem, has been instrumental in their undefeated run. Multan Sultans, meanwhile, have been in strong form, with a recent 183-run chase against Lahore Qalandars fueled by Josh Philippe’s explosive batting and Sahibzada Farhan’s consistent run-scoring. Faisal Akram’s disciplined bowling, blending youth and veteran experience, has been a key factor in their success. However, the Sultans face the challenge of overcoming Peshawar’s dominance, as the Zalmi have already posted a record-breaking total of 246 for 3 at the National Stadium—a franchise record in PSL history.#babar_azam #pakistan_super_league #multan_sultans #peshawar_zalmi #national_stadium_karachi

PSL's Peace Dove Gesture Backfires Amid US-Iran Ceasefire Hype The Pakistan Super League (PSL) faced widespread mockery after attempting to leverage the recent US-Iran ceasefire as a platform for promoting Pakistan’s image as a global peacekeeper. The league’s decision to have its captains release a dove during the toss of a match between Peshawar Zalmi and Hyderabad Kingsmen sparked a wave of social media criticism, with fans dismissing the gesture as insincere and hypocritical. The move, intended to highlight Pakistan’s role in mediating the ceasefire between the United States and Iran, was met with sarcastic remarks and memes that questioned the country’s credibility as a peace broker. The ceasefire agreement, brokered with Pakistan’s involvement, was announced on Wednesday, prompting the PSL organizers to seize the opportunity to enhance Pakistan’s diplomatic standing. During the pre-match ceremony, presenter Urooj Mumtaz announced that the captains would release a dove as a symbol of peace. Babar Azam and Marnus Labuschagne, the captains of the two teams, carried out the gesture, with Labuschagne visibly amused by the situation. However, the attempt to align the league with global peace efforts was quickly overshadowed by public skepticism. Social media users, both Indian and Pakistani, ridiculed the gesture, with many pointing out the irony of a country grappling with internal political tensions and external conflicts using cricket as a tool for diplomacy. Memes and tweets mocked the idea of Pakistan as a peacekeeper, with one user quipping, “The world’s most wanted terrorist home Pakistan is the peace maker.#babar_azam #pakistan_super_league #hyderabad_kingsmen #peshawar_zalmi #marnus_labuschagne

Flying Bam Bahadur’s pigeon: PSL trolled over 'peacemaker act' amid US-Iran ceasefire The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 became a focal point of online criticism after a symbolic peace gesture during the 15th match between Peshawar Zalmi and Hyderabad Kingsmen sparked widespread mockery. The act, intended to highlight Pakistan’s commitment to peace amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, was met with skepticism and derision from social media users. The event unfolded ahead of the April 8 match, where a white dove—a universally recognized symbol of peace—was released by Peshawar Zalmi captain Babar Azam, Hyderabad Kingsmen skipper Marnus Labuschagne, and PSL CEO Salman Naseer. The gesture was part of the “Pakistan - The Peace Maker” initiative, which aimed to position the country as a mediator in the Middle East conflict. However, the symbolic act quickly turned into a target of ridicule, with critics branding it as a forced, publicity-driven effort that felt out of place in a cricket tournament. The match itself saw Hyderabad Kingsmen suffer their fourth consecutive defeat against Peshawar Zalmi. Batting first, Kingsmen struggled early, losing four wickets for 34 runs before a crucial 82-run partnership between Perera and Labuschagne lifted them to 145. Despite this, a late collapse saw them lose five wickets for just nine runs, leaving them in a precarious position. In response, Zalmi began strongly, scoring 56 runs in the powerplay. However, wickets from Saim Ayub and Hassan Khan brought Kingsmen back into contention, reducing the target to 14 runs off the final over. Iftikhar Ahmed, who had already taken four wickets in the innings, delivered a clutch performance, smashing a boundary and a six in the final over to seal a thrilling last-ball victory for Zalmi.#babar_azam #pakistan_super_league #hyderabad_kingsmen #peshawar_zalmi #marnus_labuschagne

"Joke Of The Century": Babar Azam, Marnus Labuschagne's 'Peace Gesture' During PSL Brutally Trolled By Internet A symbolic act of peace, intended to bridge geopolitical divides, sparked widespread mockery on social media after Pakistan Super League (PSL) team captains Babar Azam and Marnus Labuschagne, along with PSL CEO Salman Naseer, released a white dove ahead of a match between Peshawar Zalmi and Hyderabad Kingsmen. The gesture, timed against the backdrop of a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, aimed to highlight diplomatic efforts in the Gulf region. However, the move was met with sharp criticism, with many users branding it as a misguided attempt to inject politics into sports. The dove release occurred during the toss of the PSL 2026 fixture, a moment typically reserved for ceremonial rituals rather than geopolitical symbolism. While the gesture was framed as a tribute to the US-Iran ceasefire, critics argued that cricket should remain apolitical. Social media platforms quickly turned the event into a viral spectacle, with users accusing the PSL of hypocrisy for mixing sports and diplomacy. One user tweeted, “These people were saying there should be no politics in cricket a few months ago, what are they doing now?” Another remarked, “Joke of the century,” while a third lamented, “LOL! No peace at home, but sure, go ahead with solving world peace. Delusional people!” The controversy surrounding the dove release amplified existing debates about the role of sports in global politics. While some praised the gesture as a creative way to raise awareness, others dismissed it as a publicity stunt.#babar_azam #hyderabad_kingsmen #peshawar_zalmi #marnus_labuschagne #salman_naseer

PES vs LAH PSL 2026: Match 19 Prediction, Pitch Report & Playing 11 Peshawar Zalmi enter the 19th match of the Pakistan Super League 2026 as strong favorites after a dominant 159-run victory over Karachi Kings, powered by Kusal Mendis’ century. Mendis’ 109 off 52 balls showcased his explosive form, while Babar Azam’s 87 runs further solidified Zalmi’s batting depth. In contrast, Lahore Qalandars face a daunting challenge following their 9-wicket collapse against Islamabad United, where they were bowled out for 100 in 10.2 overs. The absence of Fakhar Zaman, suspended for ball-tampering, has left Lahore’s top order weakened, with only Sikandar Raza (25) offering resistance in their recent loss. The match is scheduled for April 11, 2026, at 3:00 PM IST at the National Stadium in Karachi. The toss will take place at 2:30 PM IST, with the afternoon start minimizing dew impact compared to evening fixtures. The venue is known for its batting-friendly pitch, offering consistent bounce and pace, with short boundaries encouraging big hits. Spinners gain advantage as the game progresses, but the afternoon timing ensures fair conditions for both innings. Betting odds reflect Zalmi’s superiority, with 1.65 odds (61% win probability) compared to Lahore’s 2.25 (44%). Peshawar’s strong form, including a 159-run win, and their balanced playing XI give them an edge. Lahore’s struggles, particularly their batting collapse against Islamabad United, have raised concerns about their ability to compete. The head-to-head record also favors Zalmi, with 12 wins in 21 matches, though Lahore’s recent four-game winning streak from 2021 to 2023 suggests potential for a close contest. The National Stadium pitch report highlights its aggressive nature, with an average first-innings score of 173.#babar_azam #lahore_qalandars #shaheen_afridi #peshawar_zalmi #kusal_mendis

Peshawar Zalmi vs Lahore Qalandars: A Dominant Victory in Pakistan Super League 2026 Peshawar Zalmi delivered a commanding performance to defeat Lahore Qalandars by 76 runs in Match 19 of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026, showcasing their resilience and firepower on April 11, 2026. The match, held at a packed stadium, saw Zalmi dominate both batting and bowling departments, leaving Qalandars reeling after a disastrous batting display. Zalmi’s innings was built on a solid foundation, with opener Mohammad Haris scoring 18 off two overs before being dismissed by Mohammad Naeem. However, the real turning point came when Babar Azam, the PSL’s most consistent performer, was dismissed for 12 in the 15th over by Michael Bracewell. This wicket triggered a collapse, as Zalmi’s bowlers, led by Sufiyan Muqeem and Mustafizur Rahman, dismantled Qalandars’ batting lineup. By the end of their innings, Qalandars were all out for 127, with 10 wickets lost in 19 overs. Lahore Qalandars struggled to find momentum from the outset, with their top-order failing to capitalize on early opportunities. Fakhar Zaman, who scored 20 off 17 balls, was the only notable contributor, but his dismissal in the 15th over by Michael Bracewell marked the beginning of their downfall. The team’s middle order folded under pressure, with key players like Asif Ali, Haseebullah Khan, and Dunith Wellalage falling to Zalmi’s bowlers. By the 19th over, Qalandars were at 127/10, with only Sikandar Raza and Abdullah Shafique managing to score, but their efforts were in vain. Zalmi’s batting innings was a masterclass in precision and power. The team reached 168/7 in 19.3 overs, with Aamer Jamal and Farhan Yousaf scoring crucial runs.#babar_azam #lahore_qalandars #peshawar_zalmi #mohammad_naeem #michael_bracewell

PSL 2026 Peshawar Zalmi vs Lahore Qalandars: Match Preview, Predicted XIs, and Historical Context Peshawar Zalmi and Lahore Qalandars are set to face off in Match 19 of the Pakistan Super League 2026 at the National Stadium in Karachi on Saturday, April 11. The encounter marks a significant moment in the tournament as Peshawar Zalmi, led by captain Babar Azam, enters the clash with an unbeaten record, while Lahore Qalandars, under the leadership of Shaheen Afridi, aim to improve their inconsistent performance so far in the season. Peshawar Zalmi’s dominance in the tournament has been remarkable, with the team securing three wins in their first four matches. Their most recent victory was a commanding 159-run triumph over Karachi Kings, which has bolstered their confidence ahead of this match. The team currently sits second in the points table, with one game remaining without a result. Their strong form has been attributed to a balanced batting lineup and effective bowling, particularly from key players like Mohammad Haris and Kusal Mendis. Lahore Qalandars, on the other hand, have struggled to find consistency in their campaign. Despite two wins against Hyderabad Kingsmen and Multan Sultans, the team has suffered two defeats, including a loss to Karachi Kings and Islamabad United. Their fifth-place standing in the standings reflects their mixed fortunes, with challenges in both batting and bowling departments. Shaheen Afridi’s leadership has been tested as the team looks to bounce back from recent setbacks. The head-to-head record between Peshawar Zalmi and Lahore Qalandars provides a historical context for the rivalry. Over 22 matches, Peshawar Zalmi has emerged victorious in 11 encounters, while Lahore Qalandars have secured nine wins.#babar_azam #lahore_qalandars #shaheen_afridi #national_stadium #peshawar_zalmi

PZ vs LQ PSL 2026 Match 19 Prediction, Odds & Playing XI Lahore Qalandars are favored to defeat Peshawar Zalmi in the PSL 2026 Match 19, set for April 11, 2026, at the National Stadium in Karachi. The match, part of the HBL PSL 11 tournament, pits two of the league’s top teams against each other. Lahore Qalandars, the defending champions, will face Peshawar Zalmi, led by Babar Azam, in a high-stakes encounter. The game is expected to be a closely contested battle between two powerhouses, with both teams boasting strong batting lineups and formidable bowling attacks. The match will take place on Saturday, April 11, 2026, starting at 2:30 PM PKT (9:30 AM UTC). The National Stadium in Karachi, known for its day-night conditions, will host the clash. The venue’s pitch is expected to offer a balanced surface, favoring batters, with a dew factor likely to influence the second innings. Weather forecasts indicate clear skies with temperatures ranging from 31°C to 35°C, making it an ideal environment for a full-length match. Lahore Qalandars, captained by Shaheen Shah Afridi, enter the match with a slight edge in the betting markets. The team’s pace attack, featuring Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Mustafizur Rahman, is considered one of the most lethal in the tournament. Their ability to exploit early assistance on the Karachi pitch could pose significant challenges for Peshawar Zalmi’s top order. However, Peshawar Zalmi, led by Babar Azam, remains a dangerous underdog. Azam’s consistent performances, combined with the team’s explosive batting and spin options like Sufiyan Muqeem, make them a formidable opponent. The betting odds reflect the close nature of the contest.#babar_azam #shaheen_shah_afridi #lahore_qalandars #peshawar_zalmi #national_stadium_karachi

Pakistan's Babar Azam Faces Backlash After Dropped Catch in Ad Shoot Pakistan's veteran cricketer Babar Azam has once again found himself at the center of controversy following a mishap during an advertisement shoot. The incident, which has sparked widespread reactions, occurred during a promotional video for a sports brand. In the footage, Azam was tasked with catching a ball one-handed, a move designed to showcase his agility and skill. To ensure his safety, the production team placed mattresses on the floor to cushion his landing. However, during the shoot, Azam failed to secure the ball, dropping it in a moment that has since gone viral. The clip of the dropped catch has drawn sharp criticism from fans and critics alike, with many mocking the incident on social media. While some have dismissed the mishap as a minor error, others have seized the opportunity to highlight what they perceive as Azam's declining performance on the field. The incident has added to the growing scrutiny surrounding the left-handed batsman, who has struggled to maintain his form in recent months. Azam's recent struggles with the bat have led to a decline in his overall contribution to the team. His inability to consistently score runs has raised questions about his ability to lead Pakistan's batting lineup effectively. With the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 underway, the pressure on Azam to regain his form has intensified. The tournament, which serves as a crucial platform for players to showcase their skills, has placed additional expectations on the 34-year-old. The incident during the ad shoot has further amplified the spotlight on Azam, who is now under increased scrutiny from both fans and analysts.#babar_azam #pakistan_super_league #psl_2026 #sports_brand #ad_shoot

"Payment nahi milegi ab": Babar Azam's ad shoot goes wrong; trolled heavily During a promotional shoot for a commercial, Pakistan cricket captain Babar Azam faced criticism after a mishap during a simulated catch. The ad required him to dive to his right to retrieve a ball, with safety measures including two foam mattresses placed beneath him. As the ball was thrown, Azam executed the dive, landed on the mattresses, but failed to secure a straightforward catch. The incident sparked widespread mockery on social media, with users expressing disappointment and humor over the perceived error. One user remarked, “Isse gadde rakh kar bhi catch nahi liya ja raha socho agar bina gadde k pakadta to kya hota. Shayad ye 1 saal tak khel hi nahi paata,” suggesting that Azam’s failure to catch the ball despite the safety net highlighted his lack of skill. Another user quipped, “Payment nahi milega aab,” a sarcastic reference to the idea that Azam might no longer earn his salary due to the blunder. The comments reflect a mix of public frustration and lighthearted teasing, typical of online reactions to such incidents. The ad shoot incident also drew attention to broader discussions about Azam’s performance and leadership. While some critics questioned his reliability under pressure, others defended his efforts, emphasizing that the shoot was a staged scenario rather than a real match. The controversy underscored the intense scrutiny faced by high-profile athletes, even in non-competitive settings. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 is set to be played entirely behind closed doors, a decision that has raised concerns about the impact on the tournament’s atmosphere. Without fans in the stands, the electric energy that typically defines PSL matches is expected to be significantly diminished.#social_media #babar_azam #pakistan_super_league #psl_11 #pakistan_cricket_captain