In a thrilling clash at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, the Lahore Qalandars defeated the Multan Sultans in the final of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season eight. The match saw Lahore defend their PSL title, becoming the first team to do so. Multan came close to chasing the daunting target of 201 runs, losing the match by only one run.
The run-chase saw an early breakthrough by David Wiese in the fourth over of the innings after dismissing opener Usman Khan. Despite the early loss, Multan kept up with the required run-rate as Rilee Rossouw and Mohammad Rizwan stitched an impressive partnership of 64 runs in 42 balls. Rossouw's dismissal by Rashid Khan led to Rizwan perishing while trying to clear the long-on boundary. A brilliant bit of fielding from David Wiese completed the catch, flicking the ball back in the air as he stepped over the rope before reestablishing himself inside the boundary.
Shaheen's final over bagged him three wickets, putting Lahore in a strong position to win the match. Haris Rauf conceded 22 runs in the penultimate over, ensuring a thrilling finish to the match. Zaman Khan held his nerve to get Lahore over the line in the final over of the match.
Earlier, Lahore scored 200-6 in their allotted 20 overs. After a brisk start, opener Tahir Baig was dismissed by Ihsanullah with a sharp short ball. Fakhar Zaman and Abdullah Shafique added 57 runs in 38 balls for the second wicket, but Multan dismantled Lahore's plans with four quick wickets. Leg-spinner Usama Mir claimed three wickets in his first two overs, which included the scalps of Zaman, Sam Billings, and Ahsan Hafeez. Meanwhile, Khushdil Shah cleaned up Sikandar Raza with a ball that skidded through and crashed into the batter's stumps. With Lahore struggling, captain Shaheen stepped out on the field and took the attack to Multan bowlers with some sensational shot-making, remaining unbeaten on 44 runs in 15 balls.
In the Qualifier, Multan defeated Lahore to book their spot in the final, while Lahore overpowered Peshawar Zalmi to qualify for the championship match.
The Lahore Qalandars' defense of their PSL title was an impressive feat that cemented their place in the PSL history books. Lahore's victory showcased their determination, resilience, and teamwork, as they held their nerve to secure a thrilling one-run victory. The match saw some outstanding individual performances, with Shaheen's unbeaten 44 runs in 15 balls, Usama Mir's three-wicket haul, and David Wiese's crucial breakthroughs being the standout performances. The Lahore Qalandars' victory was a fitting end to a memorable PSL season.