In a rain-affected Pakistan Super League (PSL) encounter, Irfan Khan Niazi emerged as the hero for Karachi Kings, delivering a match-winning performance against Lahore Qalandars. Chasing a revised target of 168, Niazi's unbeaten 48 from just 21 balls, including five sixes in the final three overs, sealed a dramatic four-wicket victory with three balls to spare.

Match Summary

• Lahore Qalandars started strongly with openers racing to 90 before the dismissal of Mohammad Naeem (65) in the eighth over. Rain interrupted play, and upon resumption, Fakhar Zaman pushed on to 51. However, Lahore lost wickets rapidly, finishing at 160-8 in their 15 overs.
• Abbas Afridi was the pick of the bowlers for Karachi, claiming 4-27, while five Lahore batters were dismissed for single figures.

Karachi's Chase

Karachi's openers, David Warner and Tim Seifert, both contributed 24 runs each. Despite losing James Vince (13) and Khushdil Shah (9), Karachi remained in the hunt. With 52 needed from 22 balls, Niazi and Mohammad Nabi (15) forged a crucial 45-run partnership. Although Nabi fell early in the final over, Niazi ensured victory with a boundary.

Impact on the Standings

This win propels Karachi Kings above Lahore Qalandars into third place, level on points with second-placed Islamabad United. Lahore remains two points behind leaders Quetta Gladiators but boasts a superior net run rate.

Key Performers

• Irfan Khan Niazi: 48* (21 balls, 5 sixes)
• Abbas Afridi: 4-27
• Mohammad Naeem: 65 (Lahore)

For more details, check the PSL Scorecard and Fixtures & Results.