In the 19th match of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore Qalandars posted a competitive total of 209/6 against the undefeated Islamabad United. After being put in to bat, the Qalandars’ innings was anchored by a game-changing 64-run stand between wicketkeeper batter Sam Billings and all-rounder Sikandar Raza.
Openers Fakhar Zaman and Mohammad Naeem provided a solid 50-run opening partnership, with Naeem contributing a quick 25 before being run out. Fakhar went on to score a fluent 44 off 30 balls, supported by Abdullah Shafique who added 22. Despite losing both batters in quick succession to Imad Wasim, Qalandars regained momentum with Daryl Mitchell’s attacking 28-run cameo.
The real fireworks came in the death overs when Billings and Raza punished United’s bowlers with an explosive sixth-wicket partnership. Raza smashed 39 off just 17 balls, hitting three fours and three sixes, while Billings remained unbeaten on 38 from 17 deliveries, including one four and four sixes.
From Islamabad United’s bowling side, Imad Wasim and Jason Holder took two wickets each, while Ben Dwarshuis claimed one. The Qalandars will be optimistic about defending the total against a strong United lineup.
