Aaron Hardie produced a sensational all-round performance to lead Peshawar Zalmi to their first Pakistan Super League (PSL) title since 2017, defeating debutants Hyderabad Kingsmen by five wickets at a packed Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday.
Hardie’s dominance with both ball and bat proved too much for the newcomers, as Peshawar successfully chased down a modest target of 130 despite an early scare.
Earlier in the evening, Hardie dismantled the Hyderabad batting lineup, claiming 4 for 27. While the Kingsmen started brightly, reaching 69 for 2 during the powerplay, they suffered a spectacular collapse to be bowled out for just 129 in 18 overs. Saim Ayub was the lone fighter for Hyderabad, scoring a valiant 54.
In the chase, Peshawar’s nerves were tested when they slumped to 40 for 4 within five overs. Captain Babar Azam fell for a golden duck, joined in the dugout by Mohammad Haris, Kusal Mendis, and Michael Bracewell.
However, Hardie remained composed, anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 56 off 39 balls. He shared a match-winning 85-run stand with Abdul Samad (48) to guide Zalmi home in just 15.2 overs.
A jubilant Babar Azam credited the team's discipline for the win. "It’s a massive achievement for Peshawar Zalmi and our fans. Every player executed the plans perfectly across all departments," he said.
Hyderabad captain Marnus Labuschagne admitted his side was under-par with the bat. "We probably left a few runs out there. We showed great belief throughout the tournament, but tonight we just didn't have enough on the board," Labuschagne remarked.
Despite the final loss, Hyderabad Kingsmen enjoyed a fairy-tale debut season, reaching the final after losing their first four matches and knocking out former champions Multan Sultans and Islamabad United in the playoffs.
