Peshawar Zalmi tightened their grip at the top of the Pakistan Super League standings with a dominant eight-wicket win over Quetta Gladiators, extending their impressive unbeaten streak in the tournament.
At National Bank Stadium, Zalmi’s bowlers set the tone early before skipper Babar Azam anchored a composed chase with an unbeaten half-century.
Chasing 155, Zalmi never looked under pressure. The opening stand between Mohammad Haris and Babar provided early momentum, with the pair racing to 75 inside the first nine overs. Haris played the aggressor, striking a lively 35, before falling to Gladiators captain Saud Shakeel.
Babar then ensured there were no hiccups, stitching together a steady partnership with Kusal Mendis to keep the chase on track. Even after Mendis departed in the latter stages, Zalmi remained firmly in control. Aaron Hardie provided calm support at the end as Babar guided the side home with authority, finishing unbeaten on 71 in a measured yet commanding knock.
Earlier, Zalmi’s decision to field first proved decisive. Quetta struggled to build sustained momentum after losing an early wicket, with Ahsan Ali departing in the opening over.
Saud Shakeel attempted to stabilize the innings alongside Rilee Rossouw, but a run-out cut short his stay just as the partnership was developing. Rossouw showed intent with a quickfire cameo before being dismissed, leaving Quetta unable to capitalize.
Hassan Nawaz offered some resistance with a patient 37, supported briefly by Khawaja Nafay, but the innings lacked the acceleration required in the closing overs.
Zalmi’s bowling unit maintained relentless pressure throughout. Sufiyan Muqeem stood out with a disciplined spell, while Abdul Basit matched his impact with multiple breakthroughs. Iftikhar Ahmed also contributed with a key early wicket to derail Quetta’s start.
Despite a late push from Tom Curran, Quetta were bowled out for 154, a total that ultimately proved insufficient against a Zalmi side in commanding form.
With this result, Peshawar continue to build momentum as serious title contenders, combining clinical bowling with assured batting leadership from their captain.
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