In a thrilling encounter on April 15, 2025, the Lahore Qalandars triumphed over the Karachi Kings by 65 runs in the sixth match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10 at the National Bank Cricket Arena in Karachi. This match was significant not only for the points but also for breaking the Qalandars' five-match losing streak against the Kings.
The Qalandars, opting to bat first, posted a formidable total of 201 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 20 overs. Fakhar Zaman led the charge with a brilliant 76 runs off 47 balls, showcasing his power-hitting ability with six fours and five sixes. Daryl Mitchell provided solid support, scoring 75 runs off just 41 deliveries, including nine fours and two sixes. Their partnership was instrumental in setting a challenging target for the Kings.
Despite a shaky start, where Hasan Ali dismissed both Mohammad Naeem and Abdullah Shafique early, the duo of Zaman and Mitchell steadied the ship, adding a crucial 125 runs for the third wicket. Hasan Ali was the standout bowler for the Kings, claiming four wickets for 28 runs in his four overs, showcasing his skill and determination.
Chasing 202 runs, the Karachi Kings faced an early collapse, losing their captain David Warner and James Vince for ducks, both falling victim to the impressive Shaheen Shah Afridi, who took three wickets in the match. The Kings struggled to build partnerships, with Shan Masood and Tim Seifert both contributing only 18 runs each. The Kings found themselves reeling at 45 for 4 within the first 7 overs.
As wickets continued to tumble, the Kings were reduced to 50 for 7, with their innings in disarray. Khushdil Shah emerged as the lone warrior, top-scoring with 39 runs off 27 balls, but his efforts were not enough to save the Kings from defeat. Hasan Ali also contributed with a resilient 27 runs, but the Qalandars' bowlers were relentless.
Shaheen Afridi and Rishad Hossain both took three wickets, while Sikandar Raza chipped in with two. The Kings' innings ended at 136 runs in 19.1 overs, well short of the target.
This match not only highlighted the prowess of the Lahore Qalandars but also underscored the challenges facing the Karachi Kings, who now need to regroup as they continue their campaign in the PSL. The victory places the Qalandars in a strong position in the league standings, now sitting second with four points from three matches.
The PSL 2025 season is shaping up to be an exciting one, with several high-profile players participating, particularly those who were not picked in the Indian Premier League (IPL). This year, the PSL has made headlines for its competitive nature and the significant salaries offered to players, which have attracted top talent.
David Warner, who signed a lucrative $300,000 contract with the Karachi Kings, was among the players who turned to the PSL after going unsold in the IPL auction. Other notable players like Daryl Mitchell, Babar Azam, and Shaheen Afridi have also secured substantial contracts, reflecting the growing financial clout of the PSL.
The top ten highest-paid cricketers in the PSL 2025 include:
- 1. David Warner (Karachi Kings) - $300,000
- 2. Daryl Mitchell (Lahore Qalandars) - $220,000
- 3. Babar Azam (Peshawar Zalmi) - $220,000
- 4. Fakhar Zaman (Lahore Qalandars) - $220,000
- 5. Shaheen Afridi (Lahore Qalandars) - $220,000
- 6. Saim Ayub (Peshawar Zalmi) - $220,000
- 7. Naseem Shah (Islamabad United) - $220,000
- 8. Mohammad Rizwan (Multan Sultans) - $220,000
- 9. Matthew Short (Islamabad United) - $220,000
- 10. Shadab Khan (Islamabad United) - $220,000
As the PSL continues, fans can expect more thrilling matches and remarkable performances from both established stars and emerging talents. The rivalry between the Karachi Kings and Lahore Qalandars adds an exciting layer to the tournament, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats.
Looking ahead, the Kings will need to analyze their performance and make necessary adjustments to bounce back in their upcoming matches. Meanwhile, the Qalandars will aim to maintain their momentum and build on this significant victory.
