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Abdullah Zahid
LAHORE: Peshawar Zalmi defeated Hyderabad Kingsmen by five wickets in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 final, securing their second title after a nine-year gap with a comfortable chase of 130 runs.
The final, played at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, saw Zalmi win the toss and opt to field first. Hyderabad Kingsmen struggled throughout their innings and were bowled out for 129 runs in 18 overs. Saim Ayub stood out with a solid 54-run knock, while the rest of the batting lineup failed to build momentum.
Zalmi’s bowling attack was led by all-rounder Aamer Hardy, who picked up four crucial wickets. Naheed Rana claimed two wickets, while Sufyan Muqeem and Mohammad Basit chipped in with one wicket each.
In response, Peshawar Zalmi had a shaky start, losing two early wickets for just seven runs. Mohammad Haris departed after scoring six, while captain Babar Azam was dismissed for a duck. The middle order also struggled initially, with quick dismissals putting the team under pressure.
However, the match turned in Zalmi’s favor through a decisive 85-run partnership for the fifth wicket between Aamer Hardy and Abdul Samad. Hardy played a match-winning unbeaten knock of 56 runs, while Abdul Samad contributed 48 runs.
Farhan Yousaf hit the winning shot, guiding Zalmi to victory in the 16th over and sealing their long-awaited title win.
For Hyderabad Kingsmen, Mohammad Ali took three wickets, while Akif Javed and Hunain Shah claimed one each.
At the post-match ceremony, Aamer Hardy was named Player of the Final for his all-round performance, while Sufyan Muqeem was awarded Player of the Tournament after taking 22 wickets.
Babar Azam finished as the tournament’s top scorer with 588 runs, earning the Best Batter award. Farhan Yousaf was named Best Fielder, Shadab Khan Best All-Rounder, Kusal Mendis Best Wicketkeeper, and Hunain Shah Emerging Player of the Tournament.
The final was preceded by a vibrant closing ceremony at a packed Gaddafi Stadium, reflecting the growing popularity of the PSL.
