ISLAMABAD: Sikandar Raza, Lahore Qalandars’ all-rounder, played a pivotal role in their thrilling last-over victory against Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10 final at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Sunday.
Scoring 22 off just seven deliveries, Raza dramatically sealed the title for Lahore, chasing down a formidable 202-run target with only four wickets lost and one ball to spare.
What made Raza’s performance even more remarkable was his journey. Having just played in Zimbabwe’s Test match against England, where he bowled 25 overs and batted for over 20, he boarded multiple flights to make it to Lahore, landing only ten minutes before the toss.
“I had dinner in Birmingham, breakfast in Dubai, lunch in Abu Dhabi, and landed in Lahore. This is the life of a professional cricketer,” he shared during post-match celebrations.
Emotional strain
Despite fatigue and emotional strain, Raza focused solely on his role. “I tried to take the emotions out. I’m here to do a job. God forbid we lost the game, I know I’d still be with my brothers,” he said.
Describing the experience as surreal, he added, “The journey helped. I was blank out there and did not try to premeditate.”
He praised Lahore Qalandars’ experience in pressure games, referencing their last-ball win over Multan Sultans in the 2022 final.
“No team is better prepared than us, especially with the must-win games we’ve played to reach here,” said the 39-year-old.
Reflecting on injuries and uncertainties, including opener Mohammad Naeem’s fitness and multiple concussion issues, he said, “There was so much drama—I’d pick this final over the one two years ago.”
Raza had scored 60 off 68 balls for Zimbabwe in their Test loss to England just a day before flying out.
Lahore Qalandars had even prepared two team sheets—one including Raza, and another with Shakib Al Hasan as backup. He bowled just a few deliveries in the warm-up before taking the field.
Praising Raza’s dedication
Former PCB chairman Ramiz Raja lauded Raza’s dedication on his YouTube channel, calling his efforts “truly admirable.” “He managed to reach Pakistan against all odds and delivered a match-winning performance,” said Ramiz, adding that while it was a collective team effort, Raza’s cameo “added the winning spark.”
He also praised Kusal Perera’s unbeaten 62 off 31 balls, which anchored the run chase.
Ramiz revealed that Raza landed around 6 PM on match day and immediately joined the team after a minimal warm-up.
“This kind of commitment shows his love for the game and loyalty to the franchise,” he noted. He also credited Lahore Qalandars for their excellent treatment of players, saying the mutual respect within the team is evident.
Looking ahead, Ramiz expressed hope for PSL expansion, hinting at two new teams joining next season. “We must assess our player depth and strategy to make this exciting model sustainable,” he concluded.
