Tag: Peshawar Zalmi

PESHAWAR: Cricket fans are in for a treat as Babar Azam’s Zalmi XI are taking on Inzamam-ul-Haq’s Legends XI in the much-anticipated Flood Relief Exhibition Match at the Imran Khan Stadium here on Saturday.

Earlier, Legends XI have won the toss and elected to field first against Zalmi XI in the Flood Relief Exhibition Cricket Match.

Squads

Legends XI: Inzamam-ul-Haq (c), Imran Farhat, Azhar Ali, Younis Khan, Shahid Afridi, Azhar Mehmood, Humayun Farhat, Saeed Ajmal, Waqar Younis, Shoaib Akhtar, Umaid Asif, Abdur Rehman, Waqar Ahmed, Kamran Ghulam, Nisar Afridi, Aimal Khan, Mohammad Salman.

Zalmi XI: Babar Azam (c), Maaz Sadaqat, Mohammad Hafeez, Yasir Hameed, Israrullah, Salman Khan, Azan Afridi, Mohammad Irfan, Zulifqar Babar, Ihsanullah, Amir Barki, Nisar Ali, Imran Jr., Qasim Saeed.

The charity fixture, organized in collaboration with the Directorate General of Sports Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the provincial government, is underway under the slogan “Khel Se Khidmat” (Service through Sports).

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All proceeds from ticket sales are being directed towards flood relief and rehabilitation projects in the province.

Since the monsoon began in late June, devastating floods have affected several regions of Pakistan, with the death toll crossing 800.

In light of this tragedy, Peshawar Zalmi and a Legends XI side are facing off today in a high-profile charity clash, uniting current stars and former greats on the field for a cause that stretches far beyond cricket.

WATCH: Haris Rauf snaps back at journalist over fielding criticism after Afghanistan win

PESHAWAR: Legends XI have won the toss and elected to field first against Zalmi XI in the Flood Relief Exhibition Cricket Match here at the Imran Khan Stadium on Saturday.

Squads

Legends XI: Inzamam-ul-Haq (c), Imran Farhat, Azhar Ali, Younis Khan, Shahid Afridi, Azhar Mehmood, Humayun Farhat, Saeed Ajmal, Waqar Younis, Shoaib Akhtar, Umaid Asif, Abdur Rehman, Waqar Ahmed, Kamran Ghulam, Nisar Afridi, Aimal Khan, Mohammad Salman.

WATCH: Flood Relief Exhibition Match in Peshawar: Zalmi XI vs Legends XI

Zalmi XI: Babar Azam (c), Maaz Sadaqat, Mohammad Hafeez, Yasir Hameed, Israrullah, Salman Khan, Azan Afridi, Mohammad Irfan, Zulifqar Babar, Ihsanullah, Amir Barki, Nisar Ali, Imran Jr., Qasim Saeed.

The charity fixture, organized in collaboration with the Directorate General of Sports Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the provincial government, is underway under the slogan “Khel Se Khidmat” (Service through Sports).

All proceeds from ticket sales are being directed towards flood relief and rehabilitation projects in the province.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Since the monsoon began in late June, devastating floods have affected several regions of Pakistan, with the death toll crossing 800.

In light of this tragedy, Peshawar Zalmi and a Legends XI side are facing off today in a high-profile charity clash, uniting current stars and former greats on the field for a cause that stretches far beyond cricket.

READ: Former captain questions Pakistan’s careless batting against Afghanistan

Some of Pakistan’s biggest cricketing names, including Shahid Afridi, Younis Khan and Shoaib Akhtar, will take the field in the upcoming Flood Relief Exhibition Match organised by Peshawar Zalmi in support of victims of the recent floods in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The fixture, scheduled for August 30 at the Imran Khan Cricket Stadium, is being staged under the slogan “Khel Se Khidmat” (Service through Sports) in collaboration with the Directorate General of Sports Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the provincial government.

The 22-member roster boasts a mix of current stars and legendary figures.

Alongside Afridi, Younis, and Akhtar, the lineup features Babar Azam, Mohammad Hafeez, Inzamam-ul-Haq, Rashid Latif, and Azhar Ali.

Former fast-bowling greats Waqar Younis and Mohammad Irfan, as well as all-rounder Azhar Mahmood, are also set to participate.

Fans can also expect a stellar spin department with Saeed Ajmal, Yasir Shah, Abdul Rehman, and Zulfiqar Babar among those confirmed.

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Peshawar Zalmi will take on Legends XI in what promises to be one of the most high-profile charity fixtures seen in recent years.

All proceeds from ticket sales will go directly towards flood relief and rehabilitation efforts across the province.

Zalmi Chairman Javed Afridi said the initiative reflects cricket’s power to unite in times of crisis.

“This is more than just a match – it is our duty to stand with those affected. Cricket has always been a unifying force, and through this event, we aim to turn passion into meaningful support,” he said.

Provincial Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs Syed Fakhar Jahan praised the initiative, calling it “a reflection of empathy and solidarity with those who have suffered due to the floods.”

Organisers expect the event to draw a full house, with fans not only witnessing a rare gathering of cricket icons but also contributing directly to rebuilding lives and communities.

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Star batter Babar Azam will play for Peshawar Zalmi in a Flood Relief Exhibition Cricket Match to support victims of the recent floods in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK).

Since the monsoon began in late June, the flood in Pakistan has affected several regions of the country.

The death toll from the flood in Pakistan has crossed 800, with half of the casualties occurring in August alone.

In response to the crisis, the fixture, organized in collaboration with the Directorate General of Sports Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the provincial government, will be staged under the slogan “Khel Se Khidmat” (Service through Sports).

 

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Earlier, the Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise announced the organization of the match; however, it was not confirmed whether ace batter Babar Azam would participate.

Now, the franchise’s official handle has confirmed the availability of Babar Azam for the match in an animated poster.

“Babar Azam joins for the cause! The countdown begins, Peshawar Zalmi vs Legends XI. For the love of cricket & the spirit of giving,” the post caption read.

The fixture, being organized in collaboration with the Directorate General of Sports Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the provincial government, will be staged under the slogan “Khel Se Khidmat” (Service through Sports).

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Scheduled for Saturday, August 30, 2025, the Peshawar Zalmi exhibition match will take place at the Imran Khan Cricket Stadium in Peshawar.

Zalmi will take on a Legends XI side in what promises to be a high-profile charity encounter, bringing together current stars and former greats for a cause that extends well beyond the cricket field.

All proceeds from ticket sales will go directly towards flood relief and rehabilitation projects in the province.

Following the announcement, Peshawar Zalmi expressed its views on the match.

“Cricket has always been a unifying force in Pakistan. With this exhibition match, we aim to channel the passion of the game into meaningful support for our brothers and sisters affected by the devastating floods,” he remarked.

“This is more than just a match – it is our duty to stand by them in their time of need.”

Organizers expect a strong turnout, with fans given the chance to enjoy a memorable cricket spectacle while contributing to rebuilding lives.

Peshawar Zalmi has urged cricket enthusiasts, philanthropists, and the wider community to play their part, reaffirming sport’s power to inspire hope and drive change.

READ: Afghanistan announce squad for tri-series against Pakistan, UAE

Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Peshawar Zalmi has announced a Flood Relief Exhibition Cricket Match to aid victims of the recent floods in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK).

The fixture, being organized in collaboration with the Directorate General of Sports Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the provincial government, will be staged under the slogan “Khel Se Khidmat” (Service through Sports).

Scheduled for Saturday, August 30, 2025, the match will take place at the Imran Khan Cricket Stadium in Peshawar.

Zalmi will take on a Legends XI side in what promises to be a high-profile charity encounter, bringing together current stars and former greats for a cause that extends well beyond the cricket field.

All proceeds from ticket sales will go directly towards flood relief and rehabilitation projects in the province.

Peshawar Zalmi Chairman Javed Afridi said the initiative reflects the franchise’s commitment to serving the community.

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“Cricket has always been a unifying force in Pakistan. With this exhibition match, we aim to channel the passion of the game into meaningful support for our brothers and sisters affected by the devastating floods,” he remarked.

“This is more than just a match – it is our duty to stand by them in their time of need.”

Provincial Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs Syed Fakhar Jahan also lauded the effort, calling it a reflection of solidarity with those who have suffered.

“Sports is not just entertainment but also a means of empathy and service. This match reflects our compassion for those impacted by the floods,” he said.

Organizers expect a strong turnout, with fans given the chance to enjoy a memorable cricket spectacle while contributing to rebuilding lives.

Peshawar Zalmi has urged cricket enthusiasts, philanthropists, and the wider community to play their part, reaffirming sport’s power to inspire hope and drive change.

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Teenage fast bowler Ali Raza has brushed aside speculation regarding his eye health, insisting he is fully fit and focused on representing Pakistan at the highest level.

Speaking to the media during the PCB’s Skills Development Camp in Lahore, the 17-year-old addressed circulating rumours about an alleged eye issue and made it clear that his health is not a concern.

“I am relying on my hard work and self-belief. I am fully fit and have no issues with my eyes,” Raza clarified.

Recently, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) also issued an official statement dismissing the rumours, confirming the young pacer’s availability for selection across all formats.

“Ali Raza has no eye disease and is available for selection,” a PCB official said.

Raza, who impressed during Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 with 12 wickets for Peshawar Zalmi, also responded to praise from former West Indies pacer Ian Bishop.

“If someone like Ian Bishop praises you, it’s a big honour. I want to prove that his praise is justified,” Raza remarked.

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Drawing inspiration from Pakistan’s iconic fast bowlers, Ali Raza said he aims to blend Shoaib Akhtar’s pace, Wasim Akram’s swing, and Waqar Younis’ yorkers into his own bowling.

“I want to develop those kinds of skills and be remembered for my bowling. I want to learn how to adapt to different conditions and become a complete fast bowler,” he added.

The teenager also acknowledged the guidance of Peshawar Zalmi’s captain, Babar Azam, during the PSL 10.

“Babar Azam supported me a lot during the PSL. I want to give my best for the country,” he said.

It’s worth noting that Ali Raza has also featured in 11 Youth ODIs for Pakistan U19, where he picked up 26 wickets at an economy rate of 4.91.

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Peshawar Zalmi owner Javed Afridi has broken his silence, indicating significant changes after the franchise’s exit from Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 following a defeat to Lahore Qalandars.

For the first time since the inception of the PSL, Peshawar Zalmi has failed to qualify for the playoffs.

Following the game, Javed Afridi took to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) and addressed the heartbreak felt by Zalmi’s loyal fanbase and assured them that the team would come back stronger.

His message carried both accountability and optimism, as he pledged a major overhaul aimed at rebuilding the franchise with renewed purpose.

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“This season’s outcome hurts, but this platform remains a launchpad for national careers,” Afridi wrote. “Major changes are coming—we’ll rebuild with grit and purpose. InshaAllah.”

He also called for unity among PSL fans, urging Zalmi supporters to back all teams in the true spirit of cricket, despite the disappointment.

“Request to all Zalmi Fans, as a national product, let’s unite to support all PSL teams in the spirit of cricket,” he added.

Javed Afridi further reiterated Zalmi’s long-term vision of elevating the PSL experience beyond the boundary ropes, promising initiatives such as Fan Parks, Yellow Storm stadium fan zones, and vibrant marketing campaigns in future editions.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

“Stay with us—the storm returns stronger! 💛” he signed off.

Zalmi’s campaign in PSL 10 ended with a 26-run defeat against Lahore Qalandars in Rawalpindi, a rain-affected, must-win match where they fell short while chasing 150 in 13 overs, closing at 123 for 8.

Led by Babar Azam, the 2017 champions failed to find momentum throughout the season, finishing with four wins and six losses in ten matches. Their tally of eight points and a net run-rate of -0.293 wasn’t enough to carry them through.

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Peshawar Zalmi skipper Babar Azam etched his name in the history books on Sunday by becoming the first-ever player to feature in 100 Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches.

The landmark appearance came during Zalmi’s rain-affected clash against Lahore Qalandars on Saturday night at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

However, the milestone was overshadowed by a forgettable defeat that also brought Zalmi’s PSL 10 campaign to a premature end.

Babar’s PSL journey began in 2016 with Islamabad United, where he was part of the title-winning squad in the league’s inaugural edition.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

He later became the batting mainstay for Karachi Kings, where he spent five seasons and lifted the trophy in 2020.

In 2023, Babar was traded to Peshawar Zalmi in one of the most high-profile swaps in PSL history, taking over leadership duties as well.

Across his 100 PSL appearances, Babar has accumulated 3,792 runs, comfortably sitting at the top of the all-time run-scorers list.

He boasts an impressive average of 44.95, with two centuries and 36 half-centuries, a testament to his consistency and class in the T20 format.

Most Matches in PSL History:

• Babar Azam (IU/KK/PZ) – 100 matches
• Imad Wasim (KK/IU) – 98 matches
• Fakhar Zaman (LQ) – 94 matches
• Mohammad Rizwan (KK/LQ/MS) – 93 matches
• Rilee Rossouw (MS/QG) – 93 matches

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Unfortunately for the star batter, his landmark match didn’t go as planned.

Batting under pressure in a revised 13-over chase of 150, Babar showed early intent with three boundaries but was dismissed for 16 off 13 by Sikandar Raza.

His wicket triggered a collapse, reducing Zalmi to 42/4, and despite some late resistance, they eventually fell short, ending at 123/8.

With this loss, Peshawar Zalmi were knocked out of PSL 10, marking the first time in the tournament’s history that the franchise failed to qualify for the playoffs.

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RAWALPINDI: Peshawar Zalmi have won the toss and opted to bowl first against Lahore Qalandars in the rain-shortened encounter of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 here at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Sunday.

The match is reduced to 13 overs per side with revised playing conditions.

PLAYING XIs:

Lahore Qalandars: Fakhar Zaman, Muhammad Naeem, Abdullah Shafique, Kusal Perera (wk), Sikandar Raza, Shakib Al Hasan, Asif Ali, Shaheen Afridi (cap), Salman Mirza, Zaman Khan, Haris Rauf

Peshawar Zalmi: Mohammad Haris (wk), Saim Ayub, Babar Azam (cap), Max Bryant, Maaz Sadaqat, Abdul Samad, Daniel Sams, Luke Wood, Mohammad Ali, Ahmed Daniyal, Ali Raza

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

HEAD TO HEAD

Lahore Qalandars and Peshawar Zalmi have played each other 21 times since the inception of the PSL. In these encounters, Zalmi has won 12 times while Qalandars have secured 8 victories.

RECORD: Matches 21, Lahore Qalandars 8 , Peshawar Zalmi 12

The eagerly awaited season 10 of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) kicked off on Friday, 11 April, filling cricket fans with excitement.

However, the tournament faced an unexpected pause as tensions flared across the border with India.

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Originally slated to culminate on Sunday, 18 May, the final showdown has now been rescheduled to take place on a thrilling Sunday, 25 May, promising high-stakes action and unforgettable moments for fans.

READ: PSL 10: Quetta Gladiators seal top spot with last-ball win over Multan Sultans

Khushdil Shah stated that his match-winning innings against Peshawar Zalmi resulted from two years of dedicated self-improvement and hard work.

Karachi Kings stormed into the playoffs of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 with a dominant 23-run victory over Peshawar Zalmi.

The highlight of the match was a blistering unbeaten 43 off just 15 balls from Khushdil Shah, who, alongside Mohammad Nabi (26* off 10), stitched together a game-changing 70-run stand in just 24 balls to take Kings to an imposing 237-4.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Khushdil reflected on the break in the tournament and how the team stayed focused during that period.

“Yes, there was a break, but we ensured our practice and training continued. During the gap, we kept ourselves prepared for the resumption,” he said.

“It really helped that all our overseas players returned. The kind of start our top order gave us—when a team gets that platform, it makes it much easier to capitalise in the death overs.”

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

Khushdil Shah, often under scrutiny for his supposed weakness against short-pitched and outside off-stump deliveries, was asked about his evident improvement and fluency in this PSL season.

He revealed how he worked on his perceived weaknesses and trained to adapt to various match situations.

“When I was dropped from the national team, I knew I had to fix what was holding me back,” Khushdil said.

“Previously, I used to bat only in the last two or three overs, where the situation demands immediate hitting. That affected my rhythm and mindset.”

“So after being dropped, I decided to seriously work on my weaknesses and trained myself to play longer innings, because often top-order collapses mean you have to bat earlier.

“I realised that I needed to prepare myself for all kinds of situations and improve every aspect of my batting.”

He added that he consciously focused on shot-making across the ground and adapting to different situations.

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“It’s not that I’m weak against short balls. In fact, in the death overs, bowlers rarely go short—that’s often the easiest delivery to put away,” he further stated.

“Sometimes you mistime it, sometimes you score, sometimes you don’t. I’ve spent the last two years working hard on my batting, and all my focus has been on improving myself.”

When asked about attacking young Pakistani pacers Ali Raza and Ahmed Daniyal, who bowled the crucial final two overs, Khushdil Shah downplayed any notion of ease.

“We got a great start from David Warner and James Vince, which gave us the cushion,” he said.

“Secondly, the wicket was slow, and our intent was simple: watch the ball and hit the ball. Thankfully, the shots were connecting and going all around the ground.”

With this win, Karachi Kings sealed their place in the playoffs and sent a strong message to the remaining contenders.

The team will now look to carry their momentum forward and continue their charge for their second PSL title.

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