PSL 2026: Hyderabad Kingsmen Advance to Final After Dramatic Eliminator Victory Hyderabad Kingsmen, making their debut in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), secured a hard-fought victory over Islamabad United in the eliminator match on May 2, 2026, to reach the final. The team had started the tournament with four consecutive losses but staged a remarkable turnaround, winning five of their next six matches to qualify for the playoffs. Their journey to the final included a decisive win over Multan Sultan in the first eliminator, followed by this second eliminator against Islamabad United. The final match of the eliminator was a tense affair, with Islamabad United needing six runs from the final over to advance. The innings saw a dramatic collapse as Hyderabad’s bowler, Hunain Shah, delivered a masterclass performance. In the last over, Shah conceded just one run, dismissing opener Fazalhaq Faroop with the third ball. Despite a late rally by Islamabad’s Chris Green, who scored 20 off six balls, the hosts managed only two runs, falling short by four. This victory secured Hyderabad a spot in the PSL 2026 final, where they will face Peshawar Zalmi. Hyderabad’s batting lineup played a crucial role in the victory. Wicketkeeper-batsman Usman Khan anchored the innings, scoring 61 off 30 balls, while captain Maroan Labuschagne contributed 39 off 32 deliveries. Saim Ayub and Kusal Perera added 101 for the fifth wicket, with Perera finishing on 37 off 21 balls. Islamabad’s bowlers struggled to contain the run rate, with Imad Wasim taking two wickets. The match was marked by a dramatic turnaround for Islamabad, who had started poorly. After losing two wickets for 15 runs, Devon Conway and Shadab Khan steadied the innings, but both were dismissed for 30 and 22 respectively.#pakistan_super_league #hyderabad_kingsmen #islamabad_united #chris_green #fazalhaq_faroop
Hyderabad Kingsmen Advance to Second Eliminator with Dominant Display Against Multan Sultans Hyderabad Kingsmen secured a commanding victory over Multan Sultans in the Pakistan Super League Eliminator at Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday, propelling them to the second Eliminator of the tournament. The win, driven by half-centuries from Usman Khan and Maaz Sadaqat, marked a pivotal moment in the Kingsmen’s campaign, continuing their remarkable resurgence after a slow start to the season. The match, which saw Hyderabad chase down a target of 160 with ease, highlighted their disciplined bowling and explosive batting. Multan Sultans, who had finished second in the league stage with six wins, struggled to recover from early setbacks, ultimately falling to 159-9. Hyderabad’s ability to maintain composure under pressure and capitalize on key opportunities solidified their position in the playoffs. Usman Khan and Maaz Sadaqat formed a formidable partnership, scoring 102 runs off 53 balls to dismantle the Sultans’ resistance. Khan’s aggressive strokeplay, including a six over midwicket and a boundary against left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz, set the tone for the innings. Sadaqat complemented his efforts with a series of crisp drives and pulls, showcasing his ability to dominate the attack. The duo’s innings not only secured the win but also underscored Hyderabad’s depth in both batting and bowling. The Sultans’ innings was marred by early wickets and a lack of support for their top-order. Despite a promising start from Sahibzada Farhan, who struck two early boundaries, Hyderabad’s bowlers quickly turned the tide. Mohammad Ali and Akif Javed removed key Sultans batsmen, including Steven Smith and Sahibzada, within the first eight overs.#pakistan_super_league #maaz_sadaqat #multan_sultans #hyderabad_kingsmen #usman_khan
Hyderabad Kingsmen Triumph Over Multan Sultans in PSL Eliminator 1 Clash The Hyderabad Kingsmen secured a dominant 8-wicket victory over the Multan Sultans in the Pakistan Super League Eliminator 1 at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on April 29, 2026. Chasing a target of 160 runs, the Kingsmen posted a formidable total of 162 for 2 in 20 overs, with opener Usman Khan (64) and Marnus Labuschagne (64 not out) anchoring the innings. The Sultans, despite a valiant effort, fell short as the Kingsmen’s bowlers dismantled their batting lineup with precision. The Sultans’ innings began with a flurry of runs, reaching 50 in 6.3 overs, but their collapse came swiftly. Steven Smith (15) and Sahibzada Farhan (13) were dismissed early, with Smith falling to Maaz Sadaqat’s fine catch at cover. Farhan’s wicket, caught by Saim Ayub at midwicket, marked a turning point. By the 13th over, the Sultans were at 93 for 7, with Mohammad Imran (9) and Arafat Minhas (1) falling to sharp bowling. The innings concluded at 159 for 9, with Mohammad Nawaz (85) and Peter Siddle (114) among the key fallers. The Kingsmen’s batting was a masterclass in composure. Labuschagne (64 not out) and Usman Khan (64) shared a 120-run partnership, with Khan’s innings featuring eight fours and three sixes. Labuschagne’s 64 came off 33 balls, while Khan’s 64 was built on 35 deliveries, including a blistering 50 off 29 balls. The duo’s dominance allowed the Kingsmen to post a formidable total, setting the stage for a comfortable chase. The Kingsmen’s bowling attack was equally effective, with Maaz Sadaqat (2 wickets) and Mohammad Ismail (2 wickets) leading the charge. Sadaqat’s early breakthroughs, including the dismissal of Farhan and Philippe, disrupted the Sultans’ rhythm.#pakistan_super_league #gaddafi_stadium #maaz_sadaqat #multan_sultans #hyderabad_kingsmen
Usman Khan Reveals Struggles After Being Dropped From Pakistan Squad Pakistan’s T20I batter Usman Khan has detailed the emotional and professional challenges he faced following his exclusion from the national team, shedding light on the self-doubt, criticism, and personal efforts that led to his eventual resurgence in international cricket. The wicketkeeper-batter, who made his international debut for Pakistan on 18 April 2024 during a home series against New Zealand, spoke candidly during a recent interview with a local YouTube platform about the difficult phase of his career when questions about his place in the team and future prospects dominated discussions. Khan recounted the harsh reactions he received after being dropped from the Pakistan squad, with some individuals suggesting he would never make a comeback and that his opportunities had already been exhausted. “People told me that I would never make a comeback and that I had already been given enough chances, so I should go back to the UAE,” he said. However, instead of attributing his struggles to external factors, Khan took full responsibility for his performance, acknowledging his shortcomings during that period. He emphasized that his decision to improve his fitness and diet was a turning point in his career. “I used to tell people that Pakistan had given me enough chances, it was my fault. It was my mistake that I couldn’t perform. Then I hired a personal trainer and improved my diet and fitness,” he added. The setback was compounded by a prior controversy involving the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB). In 2024, Khan was banned for breaching obligations and misrepresenting his intention to represent the UAE, which restricted his participation in ECB-sanctioned events.#pakistan_super_league #gaddafi_stadium #usman_khan #emirates_cricket_board #kakul_abbottabad
Aussie Spinner Chris Green Joins Lancashire Early for Championship Campaign Australian off-spinner Chris Green will arrive at Lancashire ahead of schedule for his third stint with the club, offering a significant boost to their County Championship campaign. The 32-year-old, known for his T20 expertise, was initially set to join the team for the T20 Blast starting May 22, but will now be available for Lancashire’s upcoming Championship matches against Middlesex and Worcestershire. This early arrival is seen as a strategic move to address the team’s current challenges. Lancashire, currently leading Division Two, faces a critical period as they aim to maintain their position despite a recent eight-wicket defeat to Durham. The team has been dealing with injuries to key players, including Ajeet Singh Dale, Luke Wells, and Arav Shetty. Green’s presence is expected to fill the void left by these absences, providing both bowling depth and leadership in the dressing room. His arrival coincides with a crucial phase of the season, where Lancashire seeks to solidify their position in the table. Green’s track record with Lancashire underscores his value to the squad. Over the past two seasons, he has taken 35 wickets in 25 T20 matches, establishing himself as a reliable wicket-taker in the shortest format. His first-class performances are equally impressive, with 24 wickets and two centuries in just five matches. These achievements highlight his versatility as an all-round player capable of contributing both with the ball and the bat. Lancashire’s director of cricket performance, Mark Chilton, has praised Green’s contributions, emphasizing his role as a leader and key player in the team’s bowling attack. Chilton’s comments reflect the broader recognition of Green’s impact, both on and off the field.#pakistan_super_league #chris_green #lancashire #mark_chilton #middlesex
Early Chris Green Arrival Strengthens Lancashire Ahead of Busy Schedule Lancashire Cricket Club has announced that overseas player Chris Green will arrive at Emirates Old Trafford earlier than initially planned, allowing him to participate in two County Championship matches before the start of the 2026 Vitality Blast season. The spin-bowling all-rounder, currently with Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League, is set to join the squad ahead of the scheduled fixtures against Middlesex (May 8–11) and Worcestershire (May 15–18). This move ensures Green will be available for additional matches, including the Blast campaign and two County Championship games against Kent (June 12–15) and Derbyshire (June 19–22). Green, 32, had been expected to join Lancashire ahead of the Blast opener against Surrey on May 22. However, his early arrival marks a strategic adjustment to maximize his contribution during the club’s busy schedule. The decision comes as the club aims to bolster its squad for both the T20 Blast and County Championship competitions. Green’s inclusion in the squad will span the entire Blast tournament, including the knockout stages, and he is anticipated to play a key role in the red-ball format as well. The all-rounder’s return to Lancashire is significant, given his previous success with the club. Over the past two seasons, Green has been a standout performer, earning the T20 Player of the Year award twice. In the T20 format, he has taken 35 wickets in 25 appearances while also contributing with the bat, scoring two centuries in first-class cricket. His performances in the red-ball format have been equally impressive, with 24 wickets in five First-Class matches.#pakistan_super_league #islamabad_united #chris_green #lancashire_cricket_club #emirates_old_Trafford
PSL 2026 Final to Be Played in Front of Fans in Lahore The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 final will mark a significant shift from the tournament’s earlier restrictions, as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, confirmed that the match will be held in front of a full crowd at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. This decision comes after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved the move, allowing spectators to attend the final on 3 May. The event will be the only game of the season to feature fans, following a period of closed-door matches due to an energy crisis triggered by supply disruptions linked to the West Asia crisis. Naqvi announced the decision during a press briefing, stating that the Prime Minister had initially emphasized the need for austerity measures to conserve fuel amid the ongoing crisis. However, the PCB chairman noted that franchise owners had made a compelling case for allowing fans to attend the final, leading to the approval. “I sincerely thank the Prime Minister for this decision and for facilitating the fans,” Naqvi said, highlighting the importance of the event for the sport’s fanbase. The tournament had previously been held behind closed doors since March 22, when Naqvi announced that the PSL 2026 season would be scaled back to just two venues—Lahore and Karachi—due to the energy crisis. At the time, he left the door open for potential crowd attendance in later stages of the tournament, contingent on the resolution of the Iran-related supply disruptions. “Perhaps it ends in 10 days, perhaps 15,” he had said, expressing uncertainty about the timeline for lifting restrictions. Despite the initial plan to limit attendance, the tournament continued with minimal crowds, primarily consisting of special guests and sponsorship-related attendees.#pakistan_cricket_board #pakistan_super_league #gaddafi_stadium #shehbaz_sharif #mohsin_naqvi
Lahore Qalandars Fulfill Cancer-Stricken Child's Wish to Meet Shaheen Shah Afridi Lahore Qalandars created a heartwarming moment during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 11 by bringing a young cancer-stricken fan’s dream to life, arranging a special meeting with their captain, Shaheen Shah Afridi. The gesture, shared widely on social media, highlighted the franchise’s commitment to community engagement and supporting fans facing personal challenges. The story began with Farzan, a young boy who has been battling cancer for four years, expressing his desire to meet his idol, Shaheen Afridi. In a video clip that resonated deeply with audiences, Farzan shared his wish, stating, “My name is Farzan, and I am a huge fan of Lahore Qalandars. My greatest wish is to meet Shaheen Shah Afridi. Does he have time for me?” The clip quickly gained traction, drawing attention to Farzan’s plight and the emotional impact of his request. Moved by Farzan’s heartfelt plea, Lahore Qalandars took swift action to make his dream a reality. The franchise invited Farzan to Lahore as a special guest, allowing him to experience the excitement of a live match. He attended the team’s clash against Quetta Gladiators at Gaddafi Stadium, where he was able to meet his idol in person. The encounter was described as a deeply touching moment, with Farzan spending time with the players and absorbing the energy of the event. During the meeting, Shaheen Afridi presented Farzan with a signed shirt and cap, symbolizing the captain’s appreciation for the boy’s unwavering support. The franchise also celebrated Farzan’s courage, referring to him as a “special Qalandar” in a social media tribute. The post highlighted the significance of the moment, stating, “A very special Qalandar is in the house to support us today.#shaheen_shah_afridi #pakistan_super_league #gaddafi_stadium #lahore_qalandars #farzan
Pakistan Allrounder Nawaz Drug Test Fail | T20 World Cup 2026 Pakistan’s all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz has failed a drug test conducted during the 2026 T20 World Cup, sparking an investigation by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC). The sample, collected during the tournament, reportedly tested positive for recreational drugs, though the exact substance remains undisclosed. PCB officials confirmed the incident and stated that the board has initiated its internal inquiry, with final results yet to be determined. The case is being handled under ICC’s anti-doping protocols, which operate in secrecy. Nawaz, 32, played all seven matches for Pakistan in the 2026 T20 World Cup, contributing 15 runs and 7 wickets. His performance helped the team reach the Super-8 stage before exiting the tournament. The cricketer, known for his left-arm spin and lower-order batting, has accumulated 101 T20 wickets and 911 runs in international T20 matches. Despite the positive test, he continues to play in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), representing Multan Sultans. Recently, he bowled three overs against Karachi Kings in a match without taking a wicket. The incident has disrupted Nawaz’s career plans. He was set to join Saracens in the T20 Blast, with PCB granting him a no-objection certificate (NOC) for the deal. However, the agreement collapsed following the doping allegation, leaving him without a team for the current season. The club involved has not commented on the matter. PCB’s spokesperson confirmed that ICC notified the board about the test results, and the investigation is ongoing. If the anti-doping rules are violated, Nawaz could face suspension or other disciplinary actions.#t20_world_cup_2026 #international_cricket_council #pakistan_cricket_board #pakistan_super_league #mohammad_nawaz
"Can't Breach Contract You Never Received": KKR Star Blessing Muzarabani's Manager Hits Back At PSL 'Ban' Blessing Muzarabani, the Zimbabwean fast bowler, has found himself at the center of a controversy involving the Pakistan Super League (PSL) after being handed a two-year ban for allegedly breaching contractual obligations. The ban, imposed by the PSL’s governing body, stems from Muzarabani’s decision to withdraw from a provisional agreement with Islamabad United and instead join the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Muzarabani’s agency, World Sports Xchange, has strongly contested the disciplinary action, arguing that no formal contract was ever signed between the player and the PSL, rendering the ban unjustified. The dispute began when Muzarabani was initially linked to Islamabad United for the 2026 PSL season. A deal reportedly worth PKR 11 million (approximately Rs 37.4 lakh) was agreed upon, but the agreement was conditional on obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Zimbabwe Cricket. According to the agency, the NOC process requires a valid, signed contract with the PSL, which Muzarabani never received. The agency clarified that the initial offer was provisional and not binding, stating, “You simply cannot breach a contract you have never received.” Muzarabani later withdrew from the PSL and signed with KKR as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman, who had been injured. The agency emphasized that joining KKR did not violate any professional commitments, as there was no binding agreement tying him to the PSL at the time. They argued that the PSL’s disciplinary action was an administrative error and called for the ban to be lifted.#kolkata_knight_riders #pakistan_super_league #mohsin_naqvi #islamabad_united #zimbabwe_cricket
‘You can’t breach a contract you never received’: Muzarabani’s camp slams 'excessive' PSL ban Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani has found himself at the center of a contentious dispute after the Pakistan Super League (PSL) imposed a two-year ban on him for withdrawing from a deal to join the league. His agency, World Sports Xchange, has strongly contested the decision, arguing that no formal contract was ever signed, rendering the ban unjustified. Muzarabani, currently playing for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, had initially been lined up as a replacement signing for Islamabad United in the PSL, reportedly on a deal worth PKR 11 million. However, he opted to join KKR instead, leading to disciplinary action from the PSL. The PSL, led by its chairman Mohsin Naqvi, cited a breach of commitment as the reason for the ban. However, Muzarabani’s representatives clarified that the agreement with Islamabad United was conditional and required a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Zimbabwe Cricket. They emphasized that such an NOC could only be issued if a valid, signed contract was in place—a requirement that was never fulfilled. The agency’s statement directly challenged the PSL’s stance, asserting, “You simply cannot breach a contract you have never received.” The agency further explained that when KKR approached Muzarabani on February 27, there were no binding obligations preventing him from accepting the IPL opportunity. They described the ban as “incredibly excessive” and inconsistent with past cases where actual contractual breaches were addressed. The representatives called on the PSL to “gracefully withdraw the ban” and correct what they termed an administrative error.#pakistan_super_league #blessing_muzarabani #islamabad_united #world_sports_xchange #zimbabwe_cricket
Arafat Minhas Admits Tactical Missteps in Rain-Affected PSL 11 Match LAHORE: Lahore Qalandars all-rounder Arafat Minhas candidly acknowledged the team’s decision to field three spinners on a rain-affected surface during a shortened Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 match against Multan Sultans on April 3, 2026. The match, cut short due to sudden rain, ended in a 20-run loss for Lahore, and Minhas reflected on the tactical choices that led to the outcome. Minhas, speaking in a post-match press conference, admitted the team’s strategy backfired. “If we had conceded fewer extras and improved our fielding slightly, we could have won this match,” he said. The pitch, softened by rain, offered minimal assistance to spinners, creating a stark contrast with Multan’s approach of deploying a single spinner. “We played three spinners while they only played one, which made a difference,” he explained, highlighting the tactical imbalance that favored the opposition. The bowlers’ struggles were compounded by the sudden weather interruptions. Minhas described the mental demands of a 13-over contest, where play could resume at any moment. “You have to stay focused because play can resume at any moment. That’s exactly what happened—the rain stopped suddenly, and we had to warm up and get ready immediately,” he said. The rapid shifts in conditions required quick adaptability, a challenge the Lahore team failed to fully address. Minhas also addressed criticism of the bowling unit, defending his teammates while acknowledging the difficulties posed by the surface. “No bowler intentionally bowls to a batter’s strong zone,” he said, adding that the conditions were “very tough today.” He noted that all spinners struggled after the rain, as the pitch no longer provided the expected support.#pakistan_super_league #lahore_qalandars #multan_sultans #psl_11 #arafat_minhas
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
Fakhar Zaman's 36th Birthday Honored by PCB with Career Retrospective Lahore (Dunya News) – Pakistan’s opening batsman Fakhar Zaman celebrated his 36th birthday on Friday with a heartfelt tribute from fans and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which highlighted his record-breaking career, iconic performances, and lasting influence on the sport. The occasion marked a moment to reflect on his journey from a promising naval officer to one of Pakistan’s most explosive openers. Known for his fearless strokeplay and ability to dominate bowling attacks, Zaman’s career milestones were showcased through a specially curated reel that emphasized his most memorable innings. The PCB’s tribute included a heartfelt message from Zaman himself, who expressed gratitude for the birthday wishes and the floral gesture from PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. “Thank you very much, Chairman @MohsinnaqviC42 Sb for such a wonderful gesture. Your kind birthday wishes and the beautiful flowers truly meant a lot. Grateful for your warmth and thoughtfulness,” Zaman tweeted, sharing a photo of the flowers. Zaman, affectionately nicknamed “Fauji” due to his early days in the Pakistan Navy before transitioning to professional cricket in 2013, has carved a reputation as one of the country’s most dynamic openers. Over the years, he has accumulated 6,547 international runs across formats, a testament to his consistency and ability to deliver under pressure. His career highlights include a record-breaking unbeaten 210 in One Day Internationals (ODIs), which remains Pakistan’s highest individual score in the format. This innings, played during a crucial match, solidified his place in the record books and demonstrated his capacity to perform in high-stakes scenarios.#pakistan_cricket_board #pakistan_super_league #fakhar_zaman #mohsin_naqvi #lahore
Fakhar Zaman Thanks PCB Chairman for Birthday Gesture as Suspension Ends Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman expressed gratitude to Mohsin Naqvi, chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), for a birthday message and bouquet sent during his participation in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The gesture came as Zaman prepared to return to competitive action following a two-match suspension imposed by the PCB. The suspension, a Level 3 offense under the PCB Code of Conduct, was linked to allegations of ball-tampering during the PSL tournament. Zaman had contested the decision, requesting a full hearing under league regulations. However, the disciplinary panel reviewed the evidence and upheld the ban, citing the seriousness of the alleged misconduct. As a result, the Lahore Qalandars player missed matches against Multan Sultans and Islamabad United. With the suspension period completed, Zaman is now eligible for selection in Lahore Qalandars’ next fixture against Peshawar Zalmi at the National Stadium. His return is expected to bolster the defending champions’ batting lineup as the PSL progresses. The 32-year-old opener, known for his consistency in white-ball cricket, has represented Pakistan in both One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) over the years. The PCB’s decision to acknowledge Zaman’s birthday during his suspension highlights the board’s efforts to maintain a balance between disciplinary action and player engagement. While the incident underscores the strict enforcement of conduct rules in professional cricket, it also reflects the personal connections that often exist within the sport’s administrative and playing communities. Zaman’s potential inclusion in the upcoming match will be a key moment for Lahore Qalandars, who aim to retain their PSL title.#pakistan_cricket_board #pakistan_super_league #lahore_qalandars #fakhar_zaman #mohsin_naqvi
Abrar Ahmed Confident of Quetta Gladiators' Comeback After PSL 11 Struggles Quetta Gladiators spinner Abrar Ahmed has voiced his belief in his team’s ability to bounce back from a challenging start in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11. Speaking during an interview on a private channel, the 27-year-old emphasized the importance of moving past recent setbacks and refocusing on the path to success. Despite securing only one victory in three matches during the Lahore leg of the tournament, Ahmed remained optimistic about the team’s prospects. “We have left the previous stage behind because it wasn’t good for us. Now we want to begin again from here,” Ahmed said, reflecting on the team’s performance. He acknowledged that while the Gladiators had shown promise in some games, inconsistencies in the middle order had cost them crucial points. Specifically, he highlighted matches against Islamabad and Karachi Kings, where his side had controlled the game but failed to capitalize on opportunities. “In a couple of games, we had control but couldn’t finish,” he added, underscoring the need for improved execution in critical moments. Ahmed, who has been a key figure in Quetta Gladiators’ bowling attack, emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong economy rate and consistent performance over chasing individual statistics. “My personal goal is simple — to win the trophy for Quetta Gladiators,” he stated, framing his role as pivotal to the team’s success. He explained that while wickets are important, the focus should be on how the bowling strategy contributes to the team’s overall objective. “Maintaining a good economy rate and bowling consistently matter more than topping the wicket charts if it helps the team reach the final,” he said.#pakistan_super_league #abrar_ahmed #quetta_gladiators #rawalpindiz #islamabad_kings
Quetta Gladiators Target Strong Comeback After Early PSL 11 Struggles Quetta Gladiators spinner Abrar Ahmed has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to reset and rebound in the Karachi leg of the 2026 Pakistan Super League (PSL 11) following a challenging start to the tournament in Lahore. Speaking in an exclusive interview, Ahmed emphasized that the team has moved past its earlier struggles and is fully committed to restarting its campaign with renewed focus. “We have left the previous stage behind because it wasn’t good for us. Now we want to begin again from here,” Ahmed said, highlighting the team’s determination to turn things around. His comments came as the Gladiators faced criticism for their inconsistent performances in the early stages of the tournament, which saw them lose several matches despite holding strong positions in key games. Ahmed acknowledged that the team’s struggles in Lahore were partly due to errors in the middle order, which cost them crucial matches against teams like Islamabad United and Karachi Kings. “We were winning some matches but lost them due to mistakes in the middle order. In a couple of games, including against Islamabad and Karachi Kings, we had control but couldn’t finish,” he admitted. This admission underscores the need for improved execution in critical moments to secure victories. The spinner also stressed that the team’s primary objective is collective success rather than individual accolades. “My personal goal is simple, to win the trophy for Quetta Gladiators,” Ahmed said. He added that maintaining a good economy rate and bowling consistently is more important than leading the wicket charts, as long as it helps the team reach the final. This mindset reflects a strategic shift toward prioritizing team dynamics over personal statistics.#pakistan_super_league #abrar_ahmed #quetta_gladiators #karachi_kings #islamabad_united
