Defending champions Lahore Qalandars made a strong start to the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026, defeating debutants Hyderabad Kingsmen by 69 runs at Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday.
Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman played a key role with the ball, delivering an economical spell of 1 for 19 in four overs. Bowling in crucial phases, he helped restrict Hyderabad’s scoring and maintained pressure throughout the innings.
His compatriot Parvez Hossain Emon also made a notable PSL debut, scoring 14 runs off 13 balls. Batting at No. 4, he contributed to stabilising the innings after a brief middle-order wobble.
Earlier, Lahore posted a competitive total of 199 for 6. Openers Fakhar Zaman (53 off 39) and Mohammad Naeem (30 off 19) gave the team a strong start with an 84-run partnership. Later, Haseebullah Khan added 40 off 28 balls, while Sikandar Raza provided a quick boost with 24 off just 10 deliveries.
In response, Hyderabad struggled to build momentum. Captain Marnus Labuschagne top-scored with 26, while Saim Ayub managed 17. However, regular wickets derailed the chase.
Lahore’s bowling unit dominated, with Haris Rauf, Sikandar Raza and Ubaid Shah claiming two wickets each as Hyderabad were bowled out for 130 in 20 overs.
The match marked a successful start for the Bangladeshi players in the tournament. Notably, five Bangladeshi cricketers are featuring in PSL 2026—the highest number in a single season—highlighting the growing presence of Bangladesh talent in the league.
