A promising PSL showdown between Lahore Qalandars and Quetta Gladiators ended in disappointment as severe weather forced an early abandonment. With just 11.3 overs bowled, a sudden dust storm followed by heavy rain halted play, leading to both teams sharing points in what could have been a thrilling, high-scoring encounter.
Batting first, the Qalandars stormed to 111 for 3 in 11.3 overs, thanks to explosive performances from Mohammad Naeem and Abdullah Shafique. The duo forged a powerful 102-run partnership, setting the stage for a potential big total. Naeem dazzled with a 30-ball 50, marked by aggressive stroke play, including a stylish flick over square leg off Khurram Shahzad. His innings came to an end in the 10th over, chasing a wide delivery from spinner Abrar Ahmed.
At the other end, Shafique anchored the innings with composure and elegance, remaining unbeaten on 53. His twin sixes off Gladiators’ skipper Saud Shakeel were standout moments, showcasing his timing and confidence.
Fakhar Zaman, however, fell early to a gem from Khurram Shahzad—a short delivery that seamed in just enough to knock over the off stump. Daryl Mitchell followed shortly after, contributing just three runs before being caught by Rilee Rossouw at long-off.
Just as the Qalandars looked set to accelerate, extreme weather hit Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. The combination of dust and rain made further play impossible, especially given the venue’s limited drainage capabilities.
The result leaves both Lahore Qalandars and Quetta Gladiators level at nine points on the PSL 2025 points table. However, Qalandars hold a slight edge, sitting above the Gladiators on net run rate.