PSL 2025: Quetta Gladiators Edge Past Peshawar Zalmi Cricket fans witnessed a pulsating encounter in match number two of the Pakistan Super League 2025 as Quetta Gladiators clinched a thrilling 10-run victory over Peshawar Zalmi at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. In a game filled with explosive batting and tense moments, it was Quetta who held their nerve to register their first win of the tournament.
Quetta Gladiators Set the Tone with the Bat
Opting to bat first after Peshawar Zalmi won the toss and chose to field, Quetta Gladiators came out with intent. Their opening duo, Finn Allen and Kusal Mendis, gave a flying start. Allen was in sublime form, smashing boundaries at will, including two fours in the very first over. The Kiwi opener brought up a blistering half-century off just 25 balls, lighting up Rawalpindi with his fearless strokeplay.
Despite losing Mendis for 28 and Allen shortly after for a scintillating 65 off 32 balls, Quetta continued to dominate. Rilee Rossouw played a captain’s knock, anchoring the middle overs alongside Saud Shakeel. The pair rotated the strike well before Rossouw cut loose in the death overs, finishing unbeaten on 68. With contributions from Shakeel and a late cameo by Shoaib Malik, Quetta posted a formidable 198 for 3 in their 20 overs.
Peshawar Zalmi Respond Strongly
Chasing 199, Peshawar Zalmi started confidently with Babar Azam and Saim Ayub at the top. Ayub played some stylish strokes, but fell for 22 trying to accelerate. Babar Azam, leading from the front, showcased his class with a well-constructed half-century off 30 balls.
Mohammad Haris and Tom Kohler-Cadmore chipped in with valuable cameos, keeping the required run rate within reach. However, Quetta’s bowlers struck crucial blows at regular intervals. Mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed trapped Haris LBW, and Babar’s dismissal for 70 proved to be a turning point in the chase.
Death Bowling Masterclass Seals It for Quetta
Needing 40 off the final three overs, Zalmi still had hope with Rovman Powell at the crease. Powell’s aggressive intent saw him smash two massive sixes, but the wickets of Kohler-Cadmore and Powell in successive overs tightened the grip for the Gladiators.
Mohammad Wasim Jr. delivered a nerveless final over, defending 18 runs with clinical yorkers. Zalmi eventually fell short, ending at 188 for 5, handing Quetta a thrilling 10-run victory.
Match Summary:
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Quetta Gladiators: 198/3 (Rilee Rossouw 68*, Finn Allen 65, George Linde 2/30)
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Peshawar Zalmi: 188/5 (Babar Azam 70, Rovman Powell 25, Mohammad Wasim Jr. 2/35)
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Result: Quetta Gladiators won by 10 runs
Key Performers:
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Player of the Match: Rilee Rossouw – 68* (Anchored the innings and finished strong)
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Top Bowler: Mohammad Wasim Jr. – Held his nerve in the final over with precise execution
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Game-Changer: Finn Allen – His quickfire 65 set the tone for a high total
What’s Next?
PSL 2025: Quetta Gladiators Edge Past Peshawar Zalmi This early win gives Quetta Gladiators a much-needed boost in their campaign after a disappointing end to last season. For Peshawar Zalmi, despite the loss, there were positives to take, especially Babar Azam’s form and their competitive chase. As PSL 2025 continues, fans can expect more edge-of-the-seat action and dramatic finishes.
Stay tuned for more updates, match reports, and highlights from the Pakistan Super League 2025!
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