PSL 2026: Babar Azam’s Unbeaten 71 Guides Zalmi to Commanding Win Over Gladiators

Peshawar Zalmi 156 for 2 (Babar 71*, Haris 35, Shakeel 1-23) beat Quetta Gladiators 154 all out (Nawaz 37, Muqeem 3-25, Basit 3-36) by 8 wickets

Clinical Zalmi Outclass Gladiators to Tighten Grip on PSL Standings

Peshawar Zalmi continued their imperious run in the PSL 2026 season, cruising to an eight-wicket victory over Quetta Gladiators and further cementing their position at the top of the table. Led by a composed, unbeaten 71 from Babar Azam, Zalmi made light work of a modest 155-run chase, securing their fifth win in a row and moving within touching distance of playoff qualification.

Spin Duo and Fielding Brilliance Restrict Gladiators

After opting to bowl first, Zalmi’s bowlers set the tone from the outset. Iftikhar Ahmed struck early, while Sufiyan Muqeem and Mohammad Basit each took three wickets, dismantling a faltering Gladiators lineup. Despite a brief resistance from Saud Shakeel and Rilee Rossouw-who stitched together a promising 35-run partnership-Gladiators lost momentum quickly. Farhan Yousaf’s sharp throw in the field and disciplined spin bowling ensured the Gladiators never approached a truly competitive total.

The innings unraveled further as Muqeem removed Rossouw and Shamyl Hussain in quick succession, while Basit’s incisive seam bowling accounted for key middle-order wickets. Hasan Nawaz top-scored with 37 off 35 balls, but lacked meaningful support as the Gladiators limped to 154. Ali Raza delivered a tight final over, conceding just two runs to close the innings with Zalmi firmly in control.

Babar and Haris Lay the Foundation for a Comfortable Chase

Zalmi’s pursuit of 155 got off to a brisk start with Mohammad Haris and Babar Azam exploiting the powerplay to full effect. Their positive intent put Zalmi well ahead, allowing Babar to strategically control the tempo in the middle overs. Even after Haris was dismissed for 35, Babar seamlessly accelerated, guiding Kusal Mendis through the chase with measured partnerships.

At no point did Zalmi appear under pressure, as the required rate remained within easy reach. The Gladiators’ bowlers struggled to make inroads, and the match quickly turned into a formality. Babar’s unbeaten 71 off 51 balls not only anchored the innings but also underlined his status as one of the tournament’s premier batters.

Historic Fifth Successive Win for Zalmi

Zalmi’s victory, their sixth in seven matches, marked the first time in their history they have strung together five consecutive wins. The combination of clinical bowling, sharp fielding, and a masterful chase led by Babar Azam has established them as clear title contenders as the league phase nears its climax.

Match Highlights

Babar Azam: Unbeaten 71 off 51 balls anchors the chase
Sufiyan Muqeem & Mohammad Basit: Three wickets apiece to stifle Gladiators’ batting
Ali Raza: Concedes just two runs in a superb final over
Peshawar Zalmi: Fifth consecutive win, solidifying playoff hopes

With momentum firmly on their side and playoff qualification all but assured, Zalmi will look to carry this form into the business end of the tournament, while the Gladiators are left searching for answers after a subdued performance.