PSL 10: All-round Raza stars as Qalandars end United's winning streak

LAHORE: Sikandar Raza’s all-round brilliance powered Lahore Qalandars to a dominant 88-run victory over table-toppers Islamabad United in the 19th match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 here at Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday.

Chasing a daunting 210-run target, Islamabad United crumbled under pressure and were bowled out for just 121 in 16.5 overs.

The defeat ended Islamabad United’s 10-match winning streak in the PSL and marked their first loss of the season.

The defending champions started poorly in the chase losing in-form batter Sahibzada Farhan (9) in the second over.

After an early wicket, Salman Agha and Andries Gous steadied the innings with a brisk 69-run stand, taking United to 80 in 9.3 overs. However, Qalandars struck back with quick wickets, leaving the chasing team three down for 87.

Salman was the first one to go, bowled by Sikandar Raza after a gutsy 36 off 25 deliveries, laced with three sixes and two fours. Azam Khan, who had a brief stay, was trapped lbw by Haris Rauf.

Once the partnership was broken, Islamabad was unable to recover and the whole team was bundled. Gous remained the top scorer with 41 runs off 27 balls, which included two fours and three sixes.