Lahore Qalandars vs Islamabad United Highlights

Lahore Qalandars vs Islamabad United Highlights. In a spectacular opening match of the ninth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Shadab Khan, the captain of Islamabad United, etched his name in cricketing history. Facing the reigning champions, Lahore Qalandars, at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Shadab’s heroics propelled his team to an emphatic 8-wicket victory.

1. Toss and Fielding Decision:
   • Shadab won the toss and opted to field first, a decision that would prove pivotal.
   • The pitch initially offered low bounce and occasionally behaved unpredictably, challenging both bowlers and batsmen¹.

2. Lahore Qalandars’ Innings:
   • Qalandars’ opener, Sahibzada Farhan, blazed away with aggressive strokeplay, setting the tone.
   • Shadab himself took the ball in the seventh over and dismissed the dangerous Fakhar Zaman.
   • Despite some fielding lapses, Qalandars posted a formidable total of 195-5, thanks to a brilliant *71 by South African batter, Rassie van der Dussen.

3. Islamabad United’s Chase:
   • English opener Alex Hales started aggressively, but newcomer Jahandad Khan applied pressure with clever variations.
   • Hales fell for 36, caught-and-bowled by Salman Fayyaz.
   • At 62-2, Shadab Khan and Agha Salman joined forces.
   • Their unbeaten 138-run partnership dismantled the Qalandars’ bowling attack.
   • Shadab was dropped twice, once by Qalandars’ captain Shaheen, and once by Sahibzada Farhan.
   • With just three runs needed off the final two overs, Shadab sealed the win with a six over long-on, remaining undefeated on 74 off 41 balls.
   • Salman contributed a crucial 64 not out off 31 balls.

4. Result and Impact:
   • Islamabad United clinched a convincing victory, leaving Lahore Qalandars stunned at their fortress.
   • Shadab’s leadership, batting prowess, and astute field placements played a pivotal role in this memorable win.

This match showcased Shadab Khan’s resilience, skill, and ability to lead from the front. As the PSL season unfolds, fans eagerly await more such thrilling encounters.