Shaheen and Mustafizur Stifle Zalmi as Lahore Qalandars Claw Back After Kusal Mendis’ Blazing 74

KARACHI: A clinical death-bowling masterclass by Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mustafizur Rahman saw Lahore Qalandars claw back to restrict Peshawar Zalmi to 173/7 in the Match 19 at the National Stadium. Despite a magnificent half-century from Kusal Mendis, Zalmi’s innings lost its way in the final overs as the Qalandars' pace attack took control. 

After being put into bat in Peshawar Zalmi vs Lahore Qalandars match, Peshawar Zalmi’s top-order pair, Kusal Mendis and Babar Azam, provided a strong base to the team. Mendis was the chief aggressor from the outset, playing with fearless intent. He reached a blistering 74 off 48 balls. His partnership with skipper Babar Azam set a solid foundation, momentarily placing Lahore on the defensive. Babar Azam provided his usual stability, though at a more measured pace. 

The captain anchored the middle overs with 43 runs from 40 deliveries, ensuring wickets were kept in hand for a late-inning flourish. However, once the partnership was broken, the momentum shifted decisively. 

The final five overs belonged to the Qalandars' bowling unit. Shaheen Shah Afridi was at his lethal best, finishing with figures of 3/22 after removing key batters at critical junctures. Mustafizur Rahman utilized the Karachi surface to perfection, mixing his cutters to claim 2/30 and stifle any hopes of a 190+ total. 

Late contributions from Michael Bracewell (21 off 10) helped push the score past 170, but Peshawar ultimately finished on 173/7, leaving the match finely poised as Lahore prepares to chase.