Cricket Highlights, May 21: PSL 2025 (Qualifier 1) – QG vs IU

QG vs IU (Qualifier 1) – Highlights

In a high-stakes clash at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, QG delivered a commanding all-round performance to secure a 30-run victory over IU in Qualifier 1 of the Pakistan Super League 2025. With this win, the Gladiators booked a direct ticket to the final, leaving United to fight again in Qualifier 2 for another shot at the title.

Put in to bat first, the Gladiators made full use of the conditions with a blistering start. Skipper Saud Shakeel departed early for 12, but the aggressive intent from Finn Allen set the tone. The New Zealander struck a rapid 41 off 27 balls, peppering the off-side with crisp boundaries. Rilee Rossouw chipped in with a brief but impactful 16 off just 8 deliveries before falling to Ben Dwarshuis.

The real momentum came during the middle overs when Avishka Fernando (32 off 21) kept the scoreboard ticking, and then the pair of Dinesh Chandimal and Faheem Ashraf completely changed the tempo. Chandimal, the ever-reliable Sri Lankan, anchored the innings with a fluent 48* off 28, while Faheem Ashraf launched a stunning counterattack, blasting 45 off only 23 balls. His innings featured four boundaries and three sixes, ensuring the Gladiators finished strong at 209 for 6 in their 20 overs.

IU bowlers had no answers to the late onslaught. Salman Irshad picked up two wickets, but the overall economy remained a concern, with Naseem Shah leaking 50 runs in his four overs. Dwarshuis also grabbed two wickets but was costly, conceding 31 runs in just two overs.

Chasing 210 under lights was always going to be difficult. It was made even difficult when Alex Hales fell for a duck to Faheem Ashraf. Sahibzada Farhan batted brilliantly with a serious knock of 52 off 35, and with Rassie van der Dussen (35 off 23) gave United some hope. Salman Agha came in and played aggressively with 44 from 26 balls, but just like the rest of the middle order, he began to struggle at the other end.

With the ball in hand again, Faheem Ashraf delivered by snaring two important wickets, Neesham being the standout among them. Usman Tariq was the surprise star with figures of 3 for 32, including the dismissals of Farhan and Agha which tilted the game firmly in Quetta’s favor. Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Wasim also shared four wickets between them, ensuring Islamabad never really got close to the required rate.

United’s chase ended at 179 in 19.4 overs—30 runs shy of what was needed. Faheem Ashraf was rightly named Player of the Match for his match-winning all-round performance, delivering when it mattered most.

Also read: Cricket Highlights, May 18: PSL 2025 (28th Match) – MS vs QG

Quetta Gladiators vs. Islamabad United Scoreboard

Quetta Gladiators – 209/6 (20)

Islamabad United – 179/10 (19.4)

Result – Gladiators won by 30 runs

Player of the Match – Faheem Ashraf

QG vs IU Playing Eleven

Disclaimer: This match highlight is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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