Hassan, Rossouw centuries power Quetta to PSL’s highest total

RAWALPINDI: Quetta Gladiators has set a new Pakistan Super League (PSL) record for the highest team total, posting a mammoth 263 runs in their 20 overs during the 26th match of PSL 10, thanks to blistering centuries from Hassan Nawaz and Rilee Rossouw.

In the high-scoring clash held at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Islamabad United won the toss and opted to bowl first — a decision they likely came to regret as Quetta’s batters dominated from the outset.

Hassan Nawaz remained unbeaten on 100, while South African star Rilee Rossouw smashed a commanding 104, dismantling the Islamabad bowling attack and thrilling the Rawalpindi crowd.

Before the match, players and officials observed a minute’s silence to honour those martyred in recent Indian attacks on Pakistan.

Following the silence, the national anthem was played, with chants of Pak Fauj Zindabad echoing across the stadium in a powerful display of solidarity.

PSL faced looming threats of postponement following the India attacks, however, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed on Wednesday that the tournament will continue as scheduled.

Islamabad, currently ranked second, are looking to get back to their winning ways after losing their last two matches. Quetta on the other hand are looking to hold on to their newly attained first place. Since their loss to the Karachi Kings on April 18, the Gladiators have yet to lose again.

The match marks the return of the PSL to Rawalpindi, with four matches set to be played on 7, 8, 9, and 10 May. The final group stage match will take place in Multan on May 11. One qualifier will also take place in Rawalpindi on May 13, while all three other playoff matches will take place in Lahore, at Gaddafi Stadium.