Irfan Khan Heroics Seal Kings’ Chase vs LQ: Karachi Kings kept their playoff hopes alive with a thrilling four-wicket victory over arch-rivals Lahore Qalandars in a rain-affected HBL PSL clash at the Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday night. Chasing a revised target of 168 in 15 overs, the Kings rode on a sensational unbeaten 48 off just 21 balls from Muhammad Irfan Khan to seal the win with three balls to spare.
Kings Chase Down Tough Target
The Kings’ chase got off to a flying start as openers Tim Seifert (24 off 10) and David Warner (24 off 13) smashed 40 runs in just 3.1 overs. Despite losing quick wickets, Irfan Khan walked in at 74-3 in the seventh over and took charge with a fearless knock. His explosive hitting, including five sixes and two fours, turned the game in Kings’ favor.
A crucial 45-run partnership with Mohammad Nabi (15 off 18) in just 17 balls shifted momentum decisively. Irfan dismantled Shaheen Shah Afridi in the 13th over, smashing three consecutive sixes, before Nabi and Irfan plundered 20 runs off Haris Rauf in the next over. Needing seven off the last six balls, Irfan finished the game in style with a towering six off Daryl Mitchell.
Qalandars’ Innings Falters After Strong Start
Earlier, Lahore Qalandars posted a competitive 160-8 in their 15 overs, which was adjusted to 167 via the DLS method after a rain interruption. Openers Mohammad Naeem (65 off 29) and Fakhar Zaman (51 off 33) dominated the Powerplay with a blistering 90-run stand in just 7.5 overs. However, after their dismissals, the Qalandars collapsed, losing seven wickets for just 39 runs in the last 7.1 overs.
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Mohammad Abbas Afridi was the standout bowler for Kings, taking 4-27 in his three overs, including key wickets to derail Lahore’s momentum.
Playoff Race Heats Up
With this win, Karachi Kings moved to third place in the standings with 10 points, level with Islamabad United. Meanwhile, Quetta Gladiators became the first team to qualify for the playoffs with 11 points. For Lahore Qalandars, another disappointing loss further dented their already slim chances of progressing.
Irfan Khan’s match-winning knock not only secured a crucial victory for the Kings but also reignited their campaign as they push for a playoff spot in the remaining games.
