Latest news with #Zalmi
Express Tribune
19-05-2025
- Sport
- Express Tribune
Peshawar owner hints at 'major changes'
For the first time in HBL PSL, Peshawar Zalmi failed to qualify for the knockouts. Photo: PCB Peshawar Zalmi owner Javed Afridi has expressed disappointment following the team's exit from the ongoing HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10, as the 2017 champions failed to qualify for the playoffs stage for the first time in the tournament's history. Afridi took to social media platform X to address the team's loyal supporters in a heartfelt message. Acknowledging the pain of defeat, he reaffirmed the franchise's commitment to growth, player development, and a stronger comeback in future seasons. "To our passionate Zalmi fans: This season's outcome hurts, but this platform remains a launchpad for national careers. "Major changes" are comingwe'll rebuild with grit and purpose. InshaAllah. Request to all Zalmi Fans, as a national product, let's unite to support all PSL teams in the spirit of cricket! Shehzad backs Babar Pakistan's opening batter Ahmed Shehzad has come out in support of Peshawar Zalmi skipper Babar Azam following their elimination from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10. Zalmi's campaign came to an end after a 26-run defeat to Lahore Qalandars in their final league-stage match on Sunday at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Taking to social media platform 'X' (formerly Twitter), Shehzad defended Babar Azam and questioned why the burden of expectations always falls on a single player. "Yes, Babar Azam is out of form. Yes, his last 50 was slow. But why is all the pressure always on him? Cricket is a team game. What are the other 10 doing? He was taking risks today which was the right approach. Where are the rest of the batters when it matters the most? Accountability can't be selective," Shehzad wrote. It is pertinent to mention that the Babar-led Peshawar Zalmi's consistent run in the PSL playoffs came to an abrupt end with a 26-run defeat to Lahore Qalandars in Rawalpindi. The rain-hit game saw Zalmi chasing a target of 150 in 13 overs but managing only 123 for 8. The result ended one of the most consistent legacies in PSL history. Since the league's inception, Zalmi had never missed the knockout stageclinching the title in 2017 under Darren Sammy's leadership and reaching four finals overall. For the unversed, Zalmi concluded their 2025 PSL campaign with four wins and six defeats in ten matches, finishing with eight points and a negative net run-rate of -0.293. This marks the end of one of the most consistent runs in PSL history. Since the league's inception, Zalmi had never missed the knockout stage. They lifted the trophy in 2017 under Darren Sammy and reached the final four times in total. For the unversed, Zalmi concluded their 2025 PSL campaign with four wins and six losses from ten matches, finishing with eight points and a net run-rate of -0.293. Meanwhile, the playoff picture will become clearer after today's match between Karachi Kings and Islamabad United in Rawalpindi. Quetta Gladiators will face either Karachi Kings or Islamabad United in the first Qualifier on May 21 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. The winner of that match will secure a direct spot in the final of PSL 10.
Express Tribune
19-05-2025
- Sport
- Express Tribune
PSL 2025: Ahmed Shehzad defends Babar Azam after Peshawar Zalmi crash out
Ahmed Shehzad has come out swinging in defense of Babar Azam after Peshawar Zalmi bowed out of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 following a 26-run loss to Lahore Qalandars in Rawalpindi. In a post on his X account (formerly Twitter), the Pakistan Test opener hit back at the narrative blaming Zalmi skipper Babar Azam for the team's underwhelming season. Shehzad argued that cricket is a team game and that the entire squad should be held accountable—not just one player. Yes, Babar Azam is out of form. Yes, his last 50 was slow. But why is all the pressure always on him? Cricket is a team game. What are the other 10 doing? He was taking risks today which was the right approach. Where are the rest of the batters when it matters the… — Ahmad Shahzad 🇵🇰 (@iamAhmadshahzad) May 18, 2025 Zalmi's must-win clash against Qalandars on Sunday was shortened due to rain, reducing their target to 150 in 13 overs. Despite a strong start, they faltered late and finished at 123 for 8, crashing out of playoff contention for the first time in HBL PSL history. This season's abrupt end brings down the curtain on one of the most consistent runs in the league's history. Peshawar Zalmi, winners in 2017 and finalists four times, had never missed the knockout stage—until now. They wrapped up their HBL PSL 10 campaign with four wins and six losses, collecting eight points and a net run-rate of -0.293. The playoff picture is still unfolding, with Karachi Kings and Islamabad United battling later tonight for a crucial spot. Quetta Gladiators, already through, will face either of the two in the first Qualifier on May 21 at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium. The winner will march straight into the grand finale of HBL PSL 10. As fans dissect the reasons behind Zalmi's fall, Shehzad's rallying cry in support of Babar reminds everyone that cricket remains, above all, a team sport.
Express Tribune
19-05-2025
- Sport
- Express Tribune
Peshawar Zalmi out of HBL PSL 10: Javed Afridi promises 'major changes'
For the first time in HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) history, Peshawar Zalmi has failed to qualify for the playoffs—and owner Javed Afridi isn't taking it lightly. In a heartfelt message posted on X (formerly Twitter), Afridi addressed the team's fan base after a disappointing HBL PSL 10 campaign that ended with just four wins out of ten matches. The Babar Azam-led side's last hope was extinguished after a rain-shortened, must-win game against Lahore Qalandars, which they lost by 26 runs in Rawalpindi. 'This season's outcome hurts, but this platform remains a launchpad for national careers,' Afridi wrote. 'Major changes are coming—we'll rebuild with grit and purpose. InshaAllah.' 🚨 To our passionate Zalmi fans: This season's outcome hurts, but this platform remains a launchpad for national careers. 'Major changes' are coming—we'll rebuild with grit and purpose. InshaAllah. Request to all Zalmi Fans, as a national product, let's unite to support all… — Javed Afridi (@JAfridi10) May 18, 2025 Zalmi ended their campaign with 8 points and a negative net run-rate of -0.293, marking a significant fall for a team that had never missed the knockouts before. Champions in 2017 and finalists four times, Zalmi had long been one of HBL PSL's most consistent forces. Yet Afridi struck a hopeful tone, promising that the 'Yellow Storm' will return stronger. He unveiled plans to expand fan engagement, announcing new Fan Parks, a Zalmi fan zone inside stadiums, and vibrant marketing campaigns for upcoming seasons. 'This is not just a team, it's a movement,' Afridi added. 'As a national product, let's unite to support all PSL teams in the spirit of cricket.' With sweeping changes on the horizon and Afridi reaffirming his focus on player development and team rebuilding, one thing is clear—Zalmi may be down, but they're not out.
Express Tribune
19-05-2025
- Sport
- Express Tribune
Qalandars beat Zalmi by 26 runs in HBL PSL match
Listen to article Fakhar Zaman's explosive batting and Salman Mirza's fiery four-wicket haul powered Lahore Qalandars to a dominant win over Peshawar Zalmi, securing their spot in the HBL PSL X playoffs on Sunday in Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Chasing a daunting target, Peshawar Zalmi never looked in control and crumbled under the pressure of a climbing run rate. Zalmi had a shaky start, losing three wickets within the Powerplay (first four overs), and their troubles deepened when Babar Azam also fell after scoring just 16. Daniel Sams and Ahmed Daniyal offered brief resistance with knocks of 26 and 24 respectively, but it was never going to be enough, as Zalmi were restricted to just 123. Lahore Qalandars registered a crucial 26-run win to seal their place in the PSL X playoffs. Salman Mirza was the standout performer with the ball, claiming four key wickets, while skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi also chipped in with two important breakthroughs. Earlier, heavy rain delayed the start of play by more than two hours, with the match subsequently reduced to 13 overs per side. As per the revised playing conditions, three bowlers will be allowed to bowl a maximum of three overs each, while two bowlers may bowl up to two overs. The Powerplay has also been shortened to the first four overs (14) of the innings. After being asked to bat first, Lahore Qalandars got off to a blazing start as both Mohammad Naeem and Fakhar Zaman took the attack to Zalmi's bowlers, reaching 50 runs in just 3.1 overs. Naeem was given a lifeline when Mohammad Haris dropped a sitter behind the stumps. However, the batter failed to capitalize on the chance and was dismissed on the very next delivery after scoring 22 off just 10 balls. Fakhar Zaman, on the other hand, maintained his aggressive approach and brought up his half-century, keeping the run rate steady even as wickets fell regularly at the other end. Abdullah Shafique, Kusal Perera, and Sikandar Raza were all dismissed cheaply. Asif Ali made a brief impact, smashing two consecutive sixes before being dismissed for 18 off six balls. Fakhar's explosive innings came to an end when Daniel Sams knocked over his stumps. He scored 60 off 36 balls, hitting seven fours and three towering sixes. Qalandars posted 149 for 8 in 13 overs, setting a competitive target and putting pressure on Zalmi to secure their playoff spot. With the ball, Ahmed Daniyal stood out once again, claiming 2 wickets for 22 runs in his three overs. The rest of the Zalmi bowlers, however, were taken apart by the Qalandars' top order.
Express Tribune
18-05-2025
- Sport
- Express Tribune
HBL PSL returns in style
A colourful display of fireworks lights up the sky over Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium as part of Youm-e-Tashakkur celebrations, marking the resumption of the HBL PSL Season 10. PHOTO: ONLINE Listen to article The hustle and bustle of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) returned on Friday to the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium with a high-scoring clash between Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings, culminating in a 23-run victory for the Kings. The PSL-10 had earlier been brought to a grinding halt after India launched a drone attack outside the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Initially, it was decided to shift the remainder of the tournament to the UAE. However, following a de-escalation between Pakistan and India, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chose to bring the action back home and complete the event on native soil. On Friday, the PCB also officially dedicated the ongoing Pakistan Super League to the valiant Armed Forces of Pakistan, acknowledging their unwavering sacrifices and steadfast commitment to safeguarding the nation. "We proudly dedicate the Pakistan Super League to our brave Armed Forces who continue to safeguard the nation's integrity with courage and commitment," the PCB said in a statement. According to the PCB, Friday's PSL matches and ceremonies were held in honour of the Pakistan Army, while Saturday would be dedicated to the Pakistan Navy, and Monday to the Pakistan Air Force. The decision has been widely welcomed by fans and the cricketing fraternity alike, who have lauded the move as a fitting tribute to the armed forces' service and sacrifices for the country. In the high-scoring encounter, Karachi Kings posted 237 runs, and Peshawar Zalmi, despite a spirited chase, fell short with 214, giving the Kings a 23-run win and securing their spot in the playoffs. Zalmi's pursuit began with flair, as young Saim Ayub provided early impetus with a fluent 47 off 31 balls, striking five boundaries and a couple of sixes. However, they suffered an early blow when Mohammad Haris was dismissed for 9 by Hasan Ali, caught by James Vince after a brief but explosive cameo. From there, Captain Babar Azam took control. Combining classical elegance with aggressive intent, he anchored the innings with sublime strokeplay. His 94 off just 49 deliveries, laced with 10 boundaries and 4 sixes, kept Zalmi in the hunt throughout. He shared crucial partnerships — first with Saim Ayub and later with Tom Kohler-Cadmore — to keep the chase alive. Despite the solid contributions, Zalmi began to lose momentum in the final overs. Kohler-Cadmore (20 off 15) and Max Bryant (7 off 5) failed to accelerate meaningfully. With the required run rate climbing steadily, the turning point came in the 18th over when Babar Azam was run out, just six runs short of his century, following a mix-up, thanks to sharp fielding by Aamer Jamal and wicketkeeper Saad Baig. Babar's dismissal effectively ended Zalmi's resistance, as the remaining batters struggled to maintain the momentum. Peshawar Zalmi eventually managed 214/5 in their 20 overs, falling short by 23 runs. With this victory, the Karachi Kings sealed their place in the playoffs. (With additional input from APP)
