Shaheen Leads Lahore Qalandars to Third PSL Title in Thrilling Final

LAHORE: In front of a roaring crowd of 28,000 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore Qalandars clinched their third HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) title in stunning fashion, chasing down a record 202-run target to defeat Quetta Gladiators by six wickets. Led by skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi, Lahore displayed unity, resilience, and a touch of cinematic drama.

The spotlight was shared between Shaheen and Sikandar Raza, who made a jaw-dropping last-minute appearance—just 10 minutes before the toss. Raza had just wrapped up a Test match for Zimbabwe in England and made a whirlwind four-city journey, including stopovers in Nottingham, Birmingham, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi, to land in Lahore in time for the final.

Despite jet lag and no warm-up, Raza delivered. He took a crucial wicket, grabbed a catch, and smashed 22 runs off just 7 balls, including the finishing blows that sealed the win. His arrival and performance left even Shaheen in awe, calling it “straight out of a movie.”

Quetta Gladiators posted a strong 201-9, with Hasan Nawaz’s 76 off 43 balls leading the charge. But Lahore’s bowling unit, particularly Shaheen (3-24) and Haris Rauf (2-41), tightened the screws in the death overs. Only 8 runs were conceded in the 18th and 19th overs, turning the tide in Qalandars’ favor.

With Kusal Perera’s unbeaten 62 and Mohammad Naeem’s 46 laying the platform, it was Raza’s fearless late surge that sealed the record chase with balls to spare. At one point, 47 were needed off 18 balls, but Lahore’s belief never wavered.

Shaheen, who has led Qalandars to all three of their PSL titles, again proved indispensable. He completed 10 wickets in three knockout matches, taking at least three wickets in every final he has played. Despite his dominant performance, he humbly credited team owner Sameen Rana and his brother Atif Rana for their vision and support.

“Shaheen isn’t just a player; he’s family,” Sameen said during the post-match press conference. “He gives us credit, but it’s his leadership that has brought us three trophies in four years.”

Shaheen also spoke candidly about the challenges he’s faced, including losing the national white-ball captaincy just one series into the role. “We need to support each other if we want Pakistan cricket to grow,” he said. “Criticism without support breaks players.”

Quetta’s coach Moin Khan showed grace in defeat, praising both Lahore’s chase and Raza’s unforgettable performance. “He came straight off a flight, no warm-up, played in economy class—and still delivered. That’s real commitment,” Moin said.

While expressing disappointment over Mohammad Amir’s expensive final overs and the injury to Wasim Jr., Moin remained hopeful. “We fought hard, reached the final with heart. The boys will learn and grow.”

This final wasn’t just about a trophy—it was a celebration of heart, hustle, and brotherhood. Lahore Qalandars once again proved why they’re more than a team—they’re a family built to win.