Captain’s 52-Ball Ton and Mendis’ Fireworks Set Up 255-Run Target
Peshawar Zalmi captain Babar Azam delivered a masterclass, smashing a 52-ball century to power his side to a formidable 255 for 3 against Quetta Gladiators in the 29th match of Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 11 at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium.
Quetta Gladiators’ decision to field first backfired spectacularly as the table-toppers unleashed a batting onslaught, anchored by a monumental 135-run second-wicket partnership between Babar and the in-form Kusal Mendis.
Dominant Batting Display
The innings ignited early with Mohammad Haris’ 16-run cameo before Alzarri Joseph provided a breakthrough. However, Babar and Mendis then took center stage, batting with authority to both register their third half-centuries of PSL 11.
Mendis was eventually dismissed for a rapid 83 off just 44 balls, an innings featuring 10 fours and three sixes. Babar Azam, however, marched on, ensuring a powerful finish alongside Aaron Hardie.
The Zalmi skipper brought up his third PSL century on the final ball of the innings, finishing unbeaten on 100 from 52 deliveries. Aaron Hardie provided the final flourish with a 10-ball 26.
Bowling Struggle for Gladiators
Facing a daunting chase of 256, the Quetta Gladiators’ bowlers had a difficult outing. The wickets were shared between Alzarri Joseph, Abrar Ahmed, and Usman Tariq, with each claiming a single dismissal.
This commanding performance further solidifies Peshawar Zalmi’s position at the top of the PSL 11 table as the playoffs approach.
