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–Lahore Qalandars secured a 20-run win in a rain-shortened match as Multan Sultans fell short chasing a steep target of 186
Abdullah Zahid
LAHORE: Lahore Qalandars defeated Multan Sultans by 20 runs in the 11th match of the Pakistan Super League season 11 played in Lahore. The rain-affected game was reduced to 13 overs per side, creating a high-scoring contest with aggressive batting from both teams.
Chasing a daunting target of 186 runs, Multan Sultans managed 165 for 5 in their allotted overs. Captain Ashton Turner led from the front with an unbeaten 52, anchoring the innings under pressure. Shan Masood contributed 44 runs, while Arafat Minhas added 25, but the required run rate proved too demanding in the final overs.
Lahore Qalandars’ bowling attack delivered key breakthroughs at crucial moments. Mustafizur Rahman picked up two wickets, while Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sikandar Raza, and Obaid Shah claimed one wicket each. Tight bowling in the death overs restricted Multan’s scoring opportunities.
Earlier, Lahore Qalandars posted an imposing total of 185 for 5 in their 13 overs. Mohammad Naeem led the charge with a quickfire 60, setting the tone in the powerplay. Pervez Hossain added 45 runs, while Abdullah Shafique scored 33 to maintain momentum through the middle overs.
In the closing stages, Sikandar Raza remained unbeaten on 13, while Shaheen Afridi stayed not out without scoring. The team’s aggressive batting approach ensured a challenging total, especially given the reduced number of overs.
For Multan Sultans, Mohammad Ismail took two wickets, while Faisal Akram and Peter claimed one each. However, their bowling unit struggled to contain Lahore’s aggressive stroke play, particularly in the powerplay and death overs.
Recent seasons of the Pakistan Super League have seen a steady rise in scoring rates. According to Pakistan Cricket Board data, average run rates have increased from around 8.5 in earlier editions to above 9 in recent seasons, reflecting a shift towards more aggressive T20 batting strategies. Venues like Lahore traditionally favor batsmen, often producing high totals.
Lahore Qalandars have emerged as a strong side in recent years under the leadership of Shaheen Shah Afridi, winning back-to-back titles in 2022 and 2023. Multan Sultans, champions in 2021, have also maintained consistent performances, making them one of the most competitive teams in the league.
The rain-shortened format tilted the balance toward batting, as seen in many T20 matches where fewer overs encourage high-risk, high-reward play. Analysts note that power hitting and effective death bowling become decisive factors in such conditions.
With this win, Lahore Qalandars strengthen their position in the tournament standings, while Multan Sultans will look to regroup and improve their bowling strategy in upcoming fixtures. The ongoing Pakistan Super League season continues to deliver closely contested matches, highlighting the league’s growing competitiveness and popularity.
