Shaheen Afridi Comments on Lahore Qalandars’ Defeat After Rain Alters Playing Conditions

LAHORE: Despite a narrow four-wicket loss to Karachi Kings in the 23rd match of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 at Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday, Lahore Qalandars captain Shaheen Shah Afridi remained composed.

The Qalandars, batting first, posted a total of 160/8 in their 20 overs, propelled by rapid half-centuries from openers Mohammad Naeem and Fakhar Zaman.

Naeem was the top scorer for Lahore, hitting 65 off 29 balls, including six boundaries and five sixes. Zaman contributed 51 off 33 balls, with four fours and three sixes.

Abbas Afridi stood out for the Kings, claiming four wickets for 27 runs in his three overs. Hasan Ali, Mir Hamza, and Aamir Jamal each took one wicket.

The Kings chased a revised target of 168 in 15 overs, securing victory with six wickets down and three balls remaining, thanks to a remarkable innings by Muhammad Irfan Khan.

Khan scored an unbeaten 48 from 21 deliveries, hitting two fours and five sixes. David Warner and Tim Seifert each scored 24, while Saad Baig added 25 and Mohammad Nabi contributed 15.

Reflecting on the defeat, Shaheen Shah Afridi acknowledged it as part of the game and expressed determination to perform well in the knockout stage against the Kings.

“It’s part of the game, the team that plays better wins,” Afridi stated.

“This isn’t the end; we’ll aim for a better result when we face them in the knockouts,” he added.

Afridi also mentioned that the rain improved batting conditions and commended Naeem for his quickfire half-century, which gave the Qalandars a strong start.

“The pitch was used and initially challenging for batting. However, after the rain, the conditions improved, making it easier for the batsmen.”

“Naeem is a special player and will be important in future matches. We will focus on the positives, address our weaknesses, and strive to perform better in the upcoming games.”