PSL 2025: Fakhar-Billings Lead Qalandars’ Redemption Win | In a spectacular display of power-hitting and disciplined bowling, Lahore Qalandars secured a resounding 79-run win over Quetta Gladiators in the fourth match of PSL 2025 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. After posting a mammoth 219/6, Lahore’s bowlers dismantled Quetta’s batting lineup, skittling them out for 140 in just 16.2 overs.
Qalandars’ Batting Onslaught
Opting to bat first, Lahore got off to a flying start thanks to Fakhar Zaman (67 off 39) and Abdullah Shafique (37 off 21), who set the tone with a fiery 56-run partnership inside five overs. Fakhar, in particular, was at his destructive best, reaching his half-century in just 30 balls.
Even after Shafique’s dismissal, Lahore maintained momentum as Daryl Mitchell (37 off 23) joined Fakhar in a quickfire 50-run stand. However, the real carnage came from Sam Billings, who unleashed a brutal 19-ball 50*, smashing four fours and four sixes in the death overs. His explosive knock propelled Lahore past 200, leaving Quetta with a daunting chase.
Shaheen & Rishad Destroy Quetta’s Chase
Quetta’s chase got off to a disastrous start as Shaheen Afridi struck early, removing Saud Shakeel and Finn Allen inside the powerplay. At 9/3, the Gladiators were in deep trouble before Rilee Rossouw (44 off 19) and Kusal Mendis (28 off 14) launched a counterattack.
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Just as Quetta showed signs of recovery, Rishad Hossain (3/31) broke the partnership by dismissing Rossouw, triggering a collapse. Sikandar Raza (2 wickets) and Shaheen (2 wickets) ensured no late fightback, as Quetta folded for 140 in just 16.2 overs.
Key Takeaways
- Fakhar Zaman and Sam Billings starred with the bat, while Shaheen Afridi and Rishad Hossain dominated with the ball.
- Quetta’s batting crumbled under pressure, with only Rossouw offering resistance.
- Lahore’s net run rate received a massive boost, marking a strong comeback after their opening loss.
With this emphatic win, Lahore Qalandars have sent a strong message to the league, while Quetta Gladiators will need to regroup quickly for their next fixture.
