ISLAMABAD: Multan Sultans’ batter Yasir Khan has revealed his calculated tactics against Lahore Qalandars’ skipper and star pacer Shaheen Afridi, following his match-winning performance that helped the Sultans secure a vital victory in the 2025 Pakistan Super League (PSL).
The hosts claimed their first win of PSL 10, defeating Lahore Qalandars by 33 runs at Multan Cricket Stadium. Yasir played a pivotal role, smashing a blistering 87 off just 44 deliveries.
His explosive innings helped set an imposing target of 228, with Lahore only managing 195 in reply, bringing Multan’s winless run in the tournament to an end.
Speaking in the post-match press conference, the 23-year-old revealed his specific game plan to counter Shaheen Afridi.
“I’ve worked really hard and don’t feel pressure from any bowler. But I had Shaheen bhai in mind since last night. I planned to come down the track a bit and take him on because he swings the ball full,” Yasir said.
Flying start
The strategy paid off handsomely as he struck early boundaries off Shaheen, including a flicked four and a top-edged pull, putting the bowler on the back foot and giving Multan a flying start.
Though he fell short of a century, Yasir was focused on the team’s objectives.
“Every player dreams of scoring a hundred. I had time, but our goal was to post as many runs as possible. We won, so I’ve no regrets about missing out on the hundred,” he added.
His explosive knock, combined with Iftikhar Ahmed’s unbeaten 40 off 18 balls, powered Multan to the highest total ever recorded in PSL history at the Multan venue.
Lahore’s run chase lost momentum despite a valiant unbeaten 50 off 27 balls from Sikandar Raza.
The Sultans’ bowlers, spearheaded by Ubaid Shah (3 for 37) and a composed final over from Joshua Little, ensured the side claimed a much-needed win.
