Babar's Brilliance Powers Zalmi to Victory at the National Stadium

Peshawar Zalmi continued their clinical run in PSL 11, securing a dominant 8-wicket victory over the Quetta Gladiators in Karachi today. After winning the toss and electing to field, Babar Azam’s side put on a disciplined bowling display that never allowed the Gladiators to find their rhythm. The Zalmi bowlers were led by the young sensation Sufiyan Muqeem, who claimed 3/25, and Mohammad Basit Ali, who also picked up three wickets, effectively restricting Quetta to a modest total of 154 all out in their 20 overs.  

​The chase was a showcase of composure and class, anchored by captain Babar Azam, who remained unbeaten with a masterclass 71 off 51 deliveries. He was ably supported by Mohammad Haris, who set the tone early with a brisk 35, and Kusal Mendis, who added 21 to the tally. The Gladiators’ bowling unit struggled to apply pressure on a surface that seemed to favor the chasing side, with only Saud Shakeel and Alzarri Joseph managing to pick up a wicket each.

With this win, Peshawar Zalmi has solidified its position at the top of the points table, further cementing their status as the team to beat this season. For Quetta, despite a historic milestone for Rilee Rossouw, who became the first overseas player to reach 100 PSL appearances, the defeat leaves them in a precarious spot as they fight for a place in the qualifiers. The two teams will meet again in just a few days, where Quetta will be desperate for redemption.