- Tue, March 15, 2022
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Daryl Mitchell and Sikandar Raza Inspire Lahore Qalandars to Stunning Win Over Multan Sultans
It was a night of fireworks at the Gaddafi Stadium as Lahore Qalandars produced a thrilling run-chase to defeat Multan Sultans by five wickets in the HBL Pakistan Super League X. Powered by a blistering partnership between Daryl Mitchell and Sikandar Raza, Lahore Qalandars registered their third win of the season, firmly placing themselves second on the points table behind Islamabad United.
Mitchell and Raza Lead a Sensational Chase
Facing a daunting target of 186, Qalandars’ innings did not begin ideally. Mohammad Naeem’s early dismissal to Josh Little threatened to derail the chase. However, Fakhar Zaman’s counter-attack with three boundaries and two sixes provided initial momentum before he too fell after a brisk 28.
The backbone of the innings came from Abdullah Shafique and Daryl Mitchell, whose steady partnership kept Lahore Qalandars PSL 2025 in the hunt. Though Abdullah fell for a well-made 34, Mitchell found an able partner in Sikandar Raza. As the asking rate mounted, the duo exhibited composure and audacity, turning the match on its head with a sensational 89-run fifth-wicket stand.
Mitchell, whose 64 off 41 balls featured four sixes and four boundaries, demonstrated why he is considered one of the most reliable finishers. Meanwhile, Raza's unbeaten 40 off 21 deliveries, laced with two boundaries and four maximums, ensured that the chase was completed with six balls to spare.
Multan Sultans Post a Competitive Total
Earlier in the evening, Multan Sultans PSL 2025 were put into bat and rode on stellar performances by Mohammad Rizwan and Kamran Ghulam. Yasir Khan gave the Sultans a quick start, but wickets fell at regular intervals, stifling their momentum.
It was Rizwan’s composure and Kamran’s aggression that revived the innings. Together, they piled on 115 runs for the fourth wicket, with Rizwan remaining unbeaten on 76 off 48 balls. Kamran’s fiery 52 off just 31 deliveries injected crucial momentum into the innings, helping the Sultans post a challenging 185/3.
Haris Rauf, Tom Curran, and Daryl Mitchell managed a wicket apiece, but for most of the innings, Lahore's bowlers struggled to contain the duo.
Tactical Shifts and Bold Moves
The tactical genius of Lahore Qalandars' leadership group was evident in the way they paced their innings. Unlike previous games where mid-innings collapses hurt their chase, Lahore were determined to preserve wickets this time. The calculated assault from Mitchell and Raza perfectly aligned with the changing dynamics of the chase.
Multan’s bowlers, on the other hand, failed to adapt quickly. Despite early breakthroughs from Josh Little and Ubaid Shah, they could not sustain the pressure. Akif Javed and Mohammad Hasnain bowled with heart but lacked the precision to halt the Mitchell-Raza blitz.
Player of the Match: Daryl Mitchell
Rightfully awarded the Player of the Match, Daryl Mitchell’s innings will be remembered for its clarity of thought and execution under pressure. His ability to seamlessly shift gears from consolidation to acceleration made all the difference on the night.
Mitchell’s partnership with Raza demonstrated that composure and aggression, when balanced properly, can dismantle any bowling attack, even when the asking rate climbs above 10.
Implications for the Points Table
With this victory, Lahore Qalandars move closer to securing a playoff berth in HBL PSL X. Their superior net run rate also means they are well-positioned to challenge for a top-two finish if they continue this form.
Multan Sultans, meanwhile, find themselves under pressure. With their fifth loss, they now need to re-strategize quickly if they are to stay in the hunt for the playoffs. The form of Rizwan remains a huge positive, but their bowling unit needs to find answers fast.
Final Thoughts
The Lahore Qalandars PSL 2025 campaign has seen its ups and downs, but performances like these showcase their championship pedigree. Daryl Mitchell and Sikandar Raza’s blitz against Multan Sultans wasn't just a win; it was a statement.
As the business end of the tournament nears, Lahore Qalandars look like a side that has found its mojo at just the right time. For Multan Sultans, it's back to the drawing board as the playoff race heats up.
Fans can expect more thrilling contests as HBL PSL X continues to deliver heart-pounding action night after night.
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