The Lahore Qalandars cemented their status as a modern powerhouse of Pakistani cricket by capturing their third Pakistan Super League (PSL) title on May 25, 2025. In a thrilling final at Lahore’s iconic Gaddafi Stadium, the Qalandars defeated Quetta Gladiators by six wickets, showcasing resilience, tactical mastery, and big-match temperament.
The Gladiators, batting first, posted a competitive total of 176/7 in their 20 overs, thanks largely to Iftikhar Ahmed’s aggressive half-century and a solid cameo from Sarfaraz Ahmed. However, Lahore’s bowlers, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi and Zaman Khan, kept the scoring in check during the death overs, ensuring the target didn’t balloon beyond reach.
Chasing 177, the Qalandars lost two early wickets, creating tension among the packed home crowd. But Sri Lankan veteran Kusal Perera emerged as the hero of the night. His brilliant 68 off just 38 balls, laced with elegant cover drives and fearless pulls, anchored the innings and swung momentum firmly in Lahore’s favor. Supported by Sikandar Raza’s calm finishing touches, Lahore crossed the line with an over to spare, sparking celebrations across the city.
Perera was rightfully named Player of the Match for his pivotal innings, which turned the tide just when Quetta seemed to tighten their grip on the game. Speaking after the match, Perera said, “It’s a special feeling to contribute in a final like this. The atmosphere was electric, and the support from Lahore fans was incredible.”
This victory marks the Qalandars’ third PSL title, making them the second-most successful franchise in the league’s history, just behind Islamabad United. Under the leadership of Shaheen Shah Afridi, the team has developed a winning formula that blends experienced international stars with local talent. Afridi, who also captained the side to their 2022 and 2023 titles, praised his squad’s collective effort. “It’s not just about one or two players — it’s about the team believing in each other and stepping up at the right time,” he said.
For Quetta Gladiators, it was a bittersweet end to a strong campaign. Despite standout performances throughout the tournament, they fell short in the final hurdle, continuing a title drought that stretches back to their 2019 triumph. Captain Sarfaraz Ahmed acknowledged the disappointment but remained optimistic: “We fought hard all season, and reaching the final is no small feat. We’ll come back stronger.”
The PSL 2025 season saw record-breaking viewership, packed stadiums, and unforgettable performances, reinforcing the league’s reputation as one of the world’s top T20 competitions. With emerging stars, international flair, and passionate fans, the PSL continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of Pakistani and global cricket.
As the Qalandars lift the trophy once again, their fans can savor the moment — their team has not just won a title; they’ve built a legacy.
