Islamabad United Thrash Lahore Qalandars by 8 Wickets in PSL X Opener

Defending champions Islamabad United began their Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 campaign with a commanding 8-wicket victory over Lahore Qalandars in the tournament’s opening match at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Friday, April 11, 2025.

Chasing a modest target of 140 runs, Islamabad United comfortably reached the total in the 18th over with 8 wickets in hand.

Defending champions Islamabad United won the toss and elected to field against Lahore Qalandars.

Lahore Qalandars’ Innings:

Batting first after losing the toss, Lahore Qalandars were bowled out for 139 in the final over. Abdullah Shafique top-scored with a well-crafted 66 off 3 sixes and 6 fours.

Sikandar Raza added 23 runs, while Haris Rauf and Mohammad Naeem contributed 10 and 8 runs respectively.

Shaheen Afridi and Asif Afridi could only manage 2 runs each, while Sam Billings, Jahandad Khan, and David Wiese were dismissed for ducks.

Jason Holder starred with the ball for Islamabad United, grabbing 4 wickets.

Islamabad United’s Innings:

In response, Islamabad United chased down the 140-run target with ease, finishing at 142/2 in 17.5 overs.

Colin Munro led the charge with an unbeaten 59 that included a six and 7 boundaries. He was well-supported by Salman Agha, who remained not out on 41.

Sahibzada Farhan chipped in with a quick 25 off 24 balls, including 3 sixes.

For Lahore Qalandars, Asif Afridi and Haris Rauf took one wicket each.

Islamabad United’s dominant performance marks a strong start to their title defense.