Quetta Gladiators launched their Pakistan Super League 2025 campaign in emphatic fashion with a massive 80-run win over Peshawar Zalmi in Match 2 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Saturday. Dominating with both bat and ball, Quetta posted a daunting 216/3 before bowling out Zalmi for just 136 in 15.1 overs.
The star of the match was Abrar Ahmed, who dismantled Peshawar’s batting line-up with remarkable figures of 4/42 in 4 overs, earning him the Player of the Match award.
Gladiators’ Top-Order Fireworks
Batting first after losing the toss, Quetta Gladiators got off to a flying start. Saud Shakeel anchored the innings with a classy 59 off 42 balls, while Finn Allen exploded with a blistering 53 off just 25 deliveries, including several big hits into the crowd. Hassan Nawaz chipped in with an important 41 off 32 balls, ensuring the scoreboard kept ticking rapidly.
The Zalmi bowlers had a tough outing, with Alzarri Joseph being the most expensive, conceding 53 runs in his 4 overs. While Ali Raza (1/31) and Sufiyan Muqeem (1/39) picked up a wicket each, they were unable to contain the flow of runs.
Peshawar’s Collapse Under Pressure
Chasing a massive target of 217, Zalmi needed an explosive start but faltered under pressure. Despite a fighting 50 off 38 balls from Saim Ayub and a quickfire 35 off 19 by Hussain Talat, the middle and lower order collapsed in quick succession.
Mitchell Owen’s short burst of 31 off 13 balls was the only other highlight for Zalmi, but it was too little, too late.
Quetta’s bowlers were clinical — Mohammad Amir delivered an excellent spell, grabbing 2 wickets for just 11 runs in 2.1 overs, while Usman Tariq contributed with 2/26 in 4 overs, tightening the noose on the chase.
Dominant Start for Quetta
With this dominant victory, Quetta Gladiators have sent an early warning to other PSL teams. Their balance of power-hitting and disciplined bowling makes them strong contenders in the tournament.
The match also showcased some exciting young talent and set the tone for a high-voltage PSL season.
Match Summary:
Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
Toss: Peshawar Zalmi won and opted to bowl
Result: Quetta Gladiators won by 80 runs
Quetta Gladiators: 216/3 (20 overs)
Top Scorers: Saud Shakeel 59 (42), Finn Allen 53 (25)
Peshawar Zalmi: 136 all out (15.1 overs)
Top Scorers: Saim Ayub 50 (38), Hussain Talat 35 (19)
Best Bowlers (QG): Abrar Ahmed 4/42, Mohammad Amir 2/11
