Qalandars set Islamabad 140-run target in HBL PSL 10 opener

RAWALPINDI: Lahore Qalandars were restricted to 139 runs by Islamabad United in their opening match of HBL PSL 10, with Abdullah Shafique’s fighting knock of 66 proving to be the only bright spot in an otherwise underwhelming batting performance.

After winning the toss, Islamabad United captain Shadab Khan opted to bowl first, expressing uncertainty over the pitch in their opening game but confidence in his balanced squad. His decision paid off handsomely.

Qalandars’ innings got off to a shaky start with Fakhar Zaman departing for just one run. The early collapse continued as wickets fell at regular intervals — with Qalandars losing their second wicket at 30, sixth and seventh both at 95, and eventually being bowled out for 139.

Abdullah Shafique stood firm amid the chaos, scoring 66 off 30 balls, including a quick-fire half-century, but found little support at the other end.

Sikandar Raza chipped in with 23, Daryl Mitchell made 13, and Mohammad Naeem added 8.

Islamabad’s bowlers put on a clinical display. Jason Holder starred with four wickets, Shadab Khan grabbed three, while Imad Wasim, Naseem Shah, and Rilee Rossouw claimed one each.

With Qalandars collapsing from promising starts and failing to finish strong, cricket analysts now predict a 90 percent chance of Islamabad United winning the match, needing just 140 to secure victory.

Qalandars’ skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi, who contributed 2 runs with the bat, remained hopeful before the match, saying his side was determined to perform well in the tournament and had the backing of top international players like Daryl Mitchell.

“Winning the PSL is a beautiful feeling,” said Afridi. However, Islamabad now appear well-placed to spoil that feeling in this season’s opener.