A Century from Fakhar Zaman propelled defending champions Lahore Qalandars to a commanding 197/6 against Quetta Gladiators at Gaddafi Stadium on Tuesday.
After being put in to bat, Lahore had a shaky start as Khalil Ahmed removed Mohammad Farooq early for just four runs. Fakhar then anchored the innings alongside Abdullah Shafique, stabilizing the innings and gradually shifting momentum.The pair added 57 runs before Abrar Ahmed dismissed Shafique for 14. Fakhar, however, continued his dominance, bringing up a fluent fifty and forging a crucial 96-run partnership with Charith Asalanka, who contributed a steady 31 off 24 balls before falling to Brett Hampton.
Maintaining an aggressive approach, Fakhar went on to register his third PSL century, smashing 103 off 51 deliveries, including 11 fours and six sixes, before being dismissed by Usman Tariq.In the closing overs, Khalil Ahmed struck again to remove Sikandar Raza, while Shaheen Afridi was run out by Alzarri Joseph. A late cameo from Daniel Sams, who remained unbeaten on 18, ensured a strong finish.Lahore Qalandars ended their innings at 197/6, setting a challenging target for Quetta Gladiators.
