Lahore: Peshawar Zalmi clinched the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 11 title in emphatic fashion, defeating Hyderabad Kingsmen by five wickets in a thrilling final at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium. With this victory, Zalmi secured their second PSL trophy, reaffirming their status as one of the league’s most consistent and competitive franchises.
After winning the toss, Peshawar Zalmi opted to field first, a decision that proved highly effective as their bowlers dominated the Hyderabad batting lineup from the outset. Hyderabad Kingsmen struggled to build momentum and were eventually bowled out for just 129 runs in 18 overs, setting a modest target for the opposition.
Saim Ayub emerged as the top scorer for Hyderabad Kingsmen, playing a fighting knock of 54 runs and registering the only half-century of the match. However, he received little support from the rest of the batting order. Captain Marnus Labuschagne managed 20 runs, while Moez Sadaqat added 11. Hasan Khan contributed 12 runs, and Hunain Shah scored 9. The rest of the lineup faltered badly, with big names like Glenn Maxwell dismissed for a duck, and Irfan Niazi and Kusal Perera managing just one run each.
Peshawar Zalmi’s bowling attack was led brilliantly by Aamir Hardy, who delivered a match-winning performance with the ball, taking four wickets for just 27 runs. His disciplined and aggressive bowling dismantled Hyderabad’s batting lineup. Naheed Rana also played a key role, picking up two important wickets and maintaining pressure throughout his spell.
Chasing a target of 130, Peshawar Zalmi did not have the ideal start. Captain Babar Azam was dismissed for a duck, while Mohammad Haris could only score 6 runs. Kusal Mendis added 9, and Bracewell managed just 4 runs. At one stage, Zalmi were in deep trouble, losing four wickets for just 40 runs, and the match appeared to be slipping away.
However, the turning point came with a crucial partnership between Aamir Hardy and Abdul Samad. Demonstrating composure under pressure, the duo stabilized the innings and steadily rebuilt the chase. Hardy played an outstanding innings, remaining unbeaten on 56 runs, while Abdul Samad contributed a valuable 48 runs. Their partnership not only rescued Zalmi from a difficult situation but also ensured a comfortable finish.
Peshawar Zalmi successfully chased down the target in the 16th over, losing five wickets in the process. Aamir Hardy’s exceptional all-round performance—four wickets and a match-winning half-century—earned him widespread praise and recognition as the standout player of the final.
For Hyderabad Kingsmen, Mohammad Ali was the most successful bowler, taking three wickets, but his efforts were not enough to stop Zalmi’s determined chase.
The final match witnessed a record-breaking attendance, with 32,461 spectators filling the Gaddafi Stadium, marking the highest crowd turnout in PSL history. The atmosphere was electric, with fans passionately supporting their teams and celebrating the grand occasion.
Before the match, a colorful closing ceremony added to the excitement, featuring performances by some of Pakistan’s top artists, including Atif Aslam, Ali Azmat, Arif Lohar, Aima Baig, and the Sabri Sisters. The event created a festive environment, perfectly setting the stage for the high-stakes final.
Peshawar Zalmi’s victory in PSL 11 reflects their resilience, team spirit, and ability to perform under pressure. After years of coming close, including multiple final appearances, this triumph marks a significant achievement for the franchise and its supporters.
With this win, Zalmi not only add another title to their name but also reinforce their legacy as one of the most successful and popular teams in PSL history.
