Karachi, January 31: Lahore Qalandars secured a dominating win over Karachi Kings, thanks to a fantabulous century by Fakhar Zaman. The left-hander’s 106 off 60, which was embellished with 12 fours and four sixes, helped Lahore Qalandars chase down 171 with four balls spare.
Earlier Kings opener Sharjeel Khan smashed an electrifying 39-ball 60 to provide his side a solid opening stand of 84 in 10.1 overs with Babar Azam, who made 41 off 33. Sharjeel crunched eight fours and three sixes.
Qalandars pacer Haris Rauf had an impressive outing with the bowl, as he returned three for 33 – accounting for Lewis Gregory, Sahibzada Farhan and Imad Wasim at death, denying the opposition the opportunity to finish on a high.
“It is a great feeling to have scored my first century in HBL PSL. What makes this even more special is the fact that I have scored it in a high-pressure match and helped my side win it. Lahore Qalandars versus Karachi Kings rivalry is the life of the PSL and the pressure of this contest does get to you. But, in the end, I am happy that I delivered for my team and we have gotten our first win of the season. There are many more to come, of course. Personally, I am happy to have started this season on a good note. The aim is to build on the start I have gotten and get more wins for my team,” Fakhar Zaman said.
Scores in brief:
Karachi Kings 170-7, 20 overs (Sharjeel Khan 60, Babar Azam 41, Joe Clarke 24 not out; Haris Rauf 3-33)
Lahore Qalandars 174-4, 19.2 overs (Fakhar Zaman 106, Samit Patel 26 not out, Mohammad Hafeez 24; Umaid Asif 2-30)
Courtesy: PSL