Lahore Qalandars delivered a masterclass in all departments as they thrashed Islamabad United by 95 runs in Eliminator 2 of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10, sealing their place in the grand final against Quetta Gladiators on May 25.
Batting first after winning the toss, Qalandars posted an imposing total of 202/8—a score that proved way beyond Islamabad United’s reach. The capital side’s response fell apart spectacularly as they were bundled out for a paltry 107 in just 15.1 overs, thanks to a ruthless bowling display by the Qalandars.
Kusal Perera powers Qalandars to 200+
Despite losing opener Fakhar Zaman early for just 12, Lahore’s innings gathered momentum through a solid 70-run stand between Mohammad Naeem and Abdullah Shafique. Naeem led the charge with a fiery 25-ball 50, smashing seven boundaries and two maximums before falling to Imad Wasim.
Shafique’s cautious 25 off 24 balls kept the innings steady before he was caught brilliantly by Shadab Khan. The real fireworks, however, came from Kusal Perera, whose explosive 61 off 35 balls included aggressive strokeplay that lifted the Qalandars past the 200-mark.
Supporting roles from Bhanuka Rajapaksa (22) and Asif Ali (15) ensured Lahore never lost momentum despite regular breakthroughs from United’s bowling unit. Tymal Mills was the standout performer with the ball for United, picking up 3/42, while Salman Irshad bagged two wickets.
United’s batting collapse: No answers to Qalandars’ attack
Chasing a mammoth 203, Islamabad United’s strong batting lineup crumbled under pressure. Salman Ali Agha (33 off 26) and Shadab Khan (26 off 14) were the only batters who showed some resistance. Shockingly, the rest of the lineup failed to reach double digits.
Lahore’s pace trio of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Salman Mirza, and Rishad Hossain ripped through the batting order, grabbing three wickets apiece in a dominant bowling effort that sealed the game with over four overs to spare.
Final showdown set: Qalandars vs. Gladiators
With this emphatic win, Lahore Qalandars, the defending champions, are now set to face Quetta Gladiators in what promises to be a blockbuster final on May 25.