Quetta Gladiators and Lahore Qalandars Set for Final Showdown

LAHORE: Ramiz Raja, the former chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), shared his insights on Saturday, identifying Lahore Qalandars as the frontrunner for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 title.

He described Lahore Qalandars as a strong contender, noting their balanced composition and potential to clinch the championship.

Ramiz lauded the Qalandars’ dominant performance in Eliminator 2, emphasizing their improved fielding and comprehensive control over the game.

Key Points from Ramiz Raja:
  • He acknowledged the team’s swift correction of errors, highlighting their exceptional batting, bowling, and fielding.
  • Ramiz noted the absence of fatigue despite their recent match, viewing it as a positive indicator.

The former PCB chief also commended the strategic changes in Lahore’s playing XI, advising against further adjustments for the final.

“The inclusion of the Sri Lankan players has greatly boosted the team. These were excellent choices. My advice to Lahore is to stick with this playing XI in the final without any alterations,” he suggested.

The 62-year-old proposed that Lahore should leverage spin bowlers more, given the warm Lahore weather and the Gaddafi Stadium pitch conditions, which tend to favor spin as the game progresses.

Ramiz emphasized that Lahore is on the verge of securing another PSL 10 title, anticipating strong fan support and widespread attention on the Qalandars.

He concluded, “Only one match remains in PSL 10 and Lahore Qalandars have a chance to become champions again. All focus will be on them. A huge crowd will show up to support them. The best part is that Lahore’s batting is performing well, their bowling is working, and their fielding has improved too.”

Notably, the Qalandars delivered a remarkable performance in Eliminator 2 against Islamabad United, achieving a significant 95-run victory to advance to the PSL 10 final.

In the knockout match held at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore, United were bowled out for 107 while chasing a target of 203.

The final match of the tournament is scheduled to take place between Quetta Gladiators and Lahore Qalandars at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Sunday.