Cricket Highlights, May 23: PSL 2025 (Qualifier 2 Match) – LQ vs IU

LQ vs IU (Qualifier 2 Match) – Highlights

Lahore Qalandars produced a ruthless performance to demolish Islamabad United by 95 runs in Qualifier 2 of the Pakistan Super League 2025, held at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. This dominant win sees the defending champions power their way into yet another PSL final, riding high on the back of explosive batting and a clinical bowling display.

Batting first after winning the toss, Qalandars posted an imposing total of 202 for 8 in their 20 overs. Mohammad Naeem set the tone early with a blistering knock of 50 from just 25 deliveries, peppering the boundary with seven fours and two sixes. His aggressive stroke play laid the platform for the middle order to capitalize. With a classy 61 off 35, Perera dominated the middle phase, forcing the bowlers onto the back foot. The Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batsman showed his class with precise placement and power, striking seven boundaries and two sixes.

The Qalandars kept the runs flowing even as wickets fell consistently after the mid-innings point. Bhanuka Rajapaksa chipped in with a quick 22 off 13 balls, while Asif Ali’s cameo of 15 off 7 balls added further thrust. Tymal Mills was the pick of the bowlers for United, finishing with 3 for 42, while Salman Irshad claimed two crucial scalps. Despite these efforts, United’s bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, with Naseem Shah leaking 52 runs in his four overs.

Chasing a daunting 203 for victory, Islamabad United crumbled under the pressure. The innings never found momentum as wickets fell in clusters. Salman Mirza struck early and decisively, removing Farhan, van der Dussen, and Imad Wasim to end with figures of 3 for 16. His sharp seam bowling dismantled United’s top order, earning him the Player of the Match award.

Shaheen Shah Afridi led by example and bowled like a demon. He took 3 for 3 in 3.1 overs, taking Shahzad and Mills, and carting through the tail. In a storm of falling wickets, only Agha and Shadab held umbrellas—brief, battered, and broken.

Rishad Hossain strengthened the bowling attack by taking three crucial wickets, sealing United’s fate and leaving them no chance to recover. This dominant performance highlights Qalandars’ balanced strength in both batting and bowling, showcasing their all-round superiority. Their comprehensive victory not only demonstrated skill and teamwork but also built great momentum. The Qalandars, fueled by form and self-assurance, are perfectly positioned for an unforgettable PSL final battle.

Lahore Qalandars vs Islamabad United Scoreboard

Lahore Qalandars – 202/8 (20)

Islamabad United – 107 (15.1)

Result – Qalandars won by 95 runs

Player of the Match – Salman Mirza

LQ vs IU Playing XIs

Lahore Qalandars 

Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Naeem, Abdullah Shafique, Kusal Perera (wk), Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Asif Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi (c), Shakib Al Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Haris Rauf, Salman Mirza
Islamabad United 

Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Muhammad Shahzad, Rassie van der Dussen, Salman Agha, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan (c), James Neesham, Haider Ali, Naseem Shah, Tymal Mills, Salman Irshad

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.

To catch up on the most current news on all of your favorite thrilling cricket updates, visit BJSports to access our comprehensive Match Highlights, insightful analysis, and updates. Connect with the action now to make sure you never miss out!

angelo

See Full Bio