Lahore Qalandars thrash Kingsmen Hyderabad by 69 runs in PSL 2026 opener

Lahore Qalandars began their Pakistan Super League season 11 (PSL 11) campaign in dominant fashion, defeating Hyderabad Kingsmen by 69 runs in the opening match at Lahore on Thursday.

Batting first, Qalandars posted a strong total of 199/6 in their 20 overs, powered by a brisk 53 off 39 balls from Fakhar Zaman and a quickfire 30 from Mohammad Naeem.

Haseebullah Khan anchored the innings with an unbeaten 40, while Sikandar Raza provided late impetus with a 10-ball 24. Captain Shaheen Shah Afridi capped off the innings in style, smashing 12 runs off just two balls.

For Kingsmen, Riley Meredith and Hassan Khan picked up two wickets each, but failed to contain the flow of runs.

In reply, Kingsmen struggled from the outset and were bowled out for 130 in 20 overs. Marnus Labuschagne top-scored with 26, while no other batter managed to build a substantial innings.

Qalandars’ bowlers delivered a disciplined performance, with Ubaid Shah, Haris Rauf, and Sikandar Raza claiming two wickets each. Mustafizur Rahman and Shaheen Afridi chipped in with one wicket apiece.

The comprehensive victory gives Qalandars a strong start to their PSL 2026 campaign, while Kingsmen will look to regroup after a disappointing opening match.