Lahore, May 25, 2025: Lahore Qalandars sealed their third Pakistan Super League (PSL) title in four seasons with a dominant win over Quetta Gladiators in a thrilling final at Gaddafi Stadium. The match showcased explosive batting, clinical execution and unmatched team spirit, with standout performances from Mohammad Naeem, Kusal Perera and Sikandar Raza propelling the Qalandars to another historic victory.
Naeem’s Fireworks set the tone
Young opener Mohammad Naeem gave Lahore a dream start, launching a brutal assault on the Gladiators’ bowling attack. He blasted 46 off just 27 balls, including six towering sixes, setting the stage alight with a strike rate of 170.37. His fearless knock laid a strong foundation and fired up the home crowd.
KJP: cool, calculated and clinical
After Naeem’s departure, Kusal Janith Perera took charge with a dazzling display of aggressive yet intelligent batting. The Sri Lankan left-hander scored a blistering 62 off 31 balls, with 5 fours and 4 sixes, anchoring the innings and keeping the scoreboard ticking at a rapid pace. For his match-winning effort, he was named Player of the Match.
Raza’s Finishing Touch
Sikandar Raza once again proved his value on the big stage. Arriving late after playing a match abroad just a day earlier, the Zimbabwean all-rounder made an immediate impact. He smashed 22 runs off just 7 balls (2 fours, 2 sixes) to give Lahore a strong finish. His commitment, both on and off the field, earned praise from teammates and fans alike.
Afridi’s discipline keeps Qalandars in control as Gladiators post 202-run target
Earlier in the evening, Quetta Gladiators set a challenging target of 202 after opting to bat first, thanks to some aggressive batting. However, Lahore Qalandars’ bowling attack rose to the occasion, led by captain Shaheen Afridi, who took three crucial wickets and was the most economical bowler in the unit, conceding only 24 runs in his full quota of 4 overs. While other bowlers conceded runs at a rate of over 10 per over, Shaheen’s disciplined and impactful bowling kept the pressure on Quetta throughout their innings.
Kusal Perera on winning a man of the match award: “At that time we had to take risks and it paid off. Me and Raza calculated and assessed the situation really well, and Raza played a big part. It’s a brilliant franchise with a great environment. The players and owners had a good, honest conversation before the match and I’m happy to have contributed to this win.”
Captain Shaheen Afridi who is also a tournament top wicket taker and winner of Fazal Mehmood cap said: “Credit to the boys, and to Sameen and Atif for their support throughout the year, especially for their tireless work in our Player Development Program. The crowd came in big numbers and that support was brilliant for us.
“(On Naeem) He is a brilliant talent, and there are many more in the squad who haven’t had their chance yet. I hope Naeem can represent Pakistan one day. We thought a total around 180 or 190 was expected, but the wicket played well. We focused on playing normal cricket shots and backed ourselves.
“Kusal played a great innings, and I think we should give a lot of credit to Raza. He played a match yesterday and still made it here in time. Credit also to his family. I told him, ‘You came here for a purpose, and that purpose is to help us win the trophy.’
“If your team needs you, you must deliver at the big stage. As a captain, the expectations are even higher. I wanted to bowl with discipline, and it paid off.”
PSL Awards:
Emerging Player of the Tournament trophy: Muhammad Naeem (Lahore Qalandars)
Sikandar Raza, of Lahore Qalandars, wins the all-rounder of the tournament award
A legacy etched in green
With this win, Lahore Qalandars further cement their legacy as PSL giants with titles in 2022, 2023 and now 2025. Their combination of youth, international firepower and visionary management has redefined excellence in Pakistan’s premier T20 competition.