Karachi Kings pulled off one of the most thrilling wins of the HBL Pakistan Super League 2025 season, defeating arch-rivals Lahore Qalandars by four wickets in a rain-affected match that kept every woman cricket fan on edge. Played at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, this contest was reduced to 15 overs per side due to rain. Despite a steep revised target of 168, Karachi Kings chased it down with just three balls remaining, thanks to a spectacular 48 not out off just 21 balls by Irfan Khan.
The match, packed with playoff implications and intensity, started with Lahore Qalandars posting a challenging 160-8. Mohammad Naeem stunned with a fiery 65 off 27 balls, smashing six fours and five sixes, while Fakhar Zaman supported with 51 off 33 balls. Their opening partnership gave Qalandars a flying start before a 36-minute rain delay halted the momentum.
Post-rain, Karachi Kings returned with renewed energy. Abbas Afridi led the bowling comeback with a brilliant 4-wicket haul for 27 runs, breaking Lahoreās rhythm just when they looked to accelerate. His strikes included Abdullah Shafique, Daryl Mitchell, and Sikandar Raza, which helped restrict the Qalandars from reaching a bigger total.
In response, Karachi Kings began their chase with aggression. David Warner hit two sixes and two fours before being bowled by Haris Rauf for 24. His partner Tim Seifert also contributed a quick 24 before falling in the fifth over. The middle order faced setbacks with the fall of Vince and Khushdil, but the turning point came with the arrival of Irfan Khan.
Irfan displayed fearless hitting under pressure. With 52 needed off just 22 balls, he took charge. In the 13th over bowled by Shaheen Shah Afridi, he smashed three sixes with style and confidence. Then, in the following over, he cleared square leg with another six. Mohammad Nabi also contributed a vital 16, hitting a six and a four before falling in the last over.
With 7 runs required off the final over, Nabi was dismissed on the first ball, but Irfan finished the match in style. He lifted a full toss over long-off, sealing a thrilling victory for the Kings and sending their fans, especially the women supporters who passionately follow PSL, into celebrations.
This match wasnāt just about big hits or quick wickets ā it was about handling pressure, executing plans, and showcasing nerve. Karachi Kings have kept their playoff hopes alive, while Lahore Qalandars will look to bounce back. The growing presence of female PSL fans continues to bring new energy to stadiums and screens across Pakistan.
