Sikandar, Haris Shatter Islamabad United Winning Run: In a dominant display, Lahore Qalandars ended Islamabad United’s winning run with a commanding 88-run victory in HBL PSL X at the Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday. The Qalandars’ all-round brilliance, led by Sikandar Raza and Haris Rauf, propelled them to their fourth win of the season, moving them up to second place in the points table.
Qalandars Post Massive Total
Lahore set a formidable target of 209-6, their second-highest score of the season, thanks to contributions from the entire top order. Openers Fakhar Zaman (44 off 30) and Mohammad Naeem (25 off 22) laid a solid foundation with a 50-run stand. Fakhar continued his aggressive approach, adding 47 runs with Abdullah Shafique (22 off 17) before falling to Imad Wasim, who was Islamabad’s most economical bowler (2-26).
The middle order accelerated in the death overs, with Sikandar Raza (39 off 17) and Sam Billings (38 off 17)* unleashing a brutal assault, plundering 64 runs in the last 23 balls. Their explosive hitting, including seven sixes between them, left Islamabad’s bowlers helpless.
Islamabad’s Batting Collapse
In reply, Islamabad United crumbled under pressure, getting bowled out for 121 in 16.5 overs. After a promising start from Andries Gous (41 off 27) and Salman Ali Agha (36 off 25), who added 69 runs, the innings imploded spectacularly.
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The turning point came when Sikandar Raza (3-20) broke the partnership by dismissing Salman, triggering a collapse. Haris Rauf (4-31) then wreaked havoc, removing key players including Azam Khan, Gous, and Jason Holder in quick succession. Islamabad lost 9 wickets for just 41 runs, with Rauf and Raza dismantling the middle and lower order.
Key Performances & Milestones
- Sikandar Raza was named Player of the Match for his three-wicket haul and explosive batting.
- Haris Rauf reached 300 T20 wickets, joining an elite club.
- Shaheen Afridi also claimed his 300th T20 scalp, dismissing Sahibzada Farhan early.
What’s Next?
Lahore Qalandars will look to maintain their momentum when they face Quetta Gladiators in Thursday’s double-header. Meanwhile, Islamabad United will need to regroup after this heavy defeat.
This emphatic win not only boosts Lahore’s playoff hopes but also sends a strong message to their rivals in PSL X.
