Lahore Qalandars edge Victoria by 10 runs in thrilling GSL clash

Lahore Qalandars edged out Victoria by 10 runs in a dramatic clash at the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) 2024 in Providence, securing a crucial victory. The match, which kept fans on the edge of their seats, saw a standout bowling performance from Qalandars' Tabraiz Shamsi, who played a key role in his team's win.

Victoria won the toss and opted to bowl first. The Qalandars' innings was anchored by Mirza Baig, who scored a steady 39 runs from 36 balls. Despite some contributions from Mohammad Faizan (25 off 21 balls), Tom Abell (17), and Mohammad Akhlaq (26), the Qalandars were never able to accelerate their innings. 

The highlight of the innings came when Qalandars’ captain, Carlos Brathwaite, was dismissed for a golden duck by Jackson Smith, who was in excellent form. Smith claimed three wickets in total, and his partner Dominic Drakes also impressed, taking three wickets and bowling 14 dot balls during his four overs. The Qalandars were all out for 139, setting a target of 140 for Victoria.

In reply, Victoria made a solid start, with Blake Macdonald and Joe Clarke putting on 67 runs for the first wicket. However, the Qalandars' bowlers applied pressure, and wickets began to fall regularly. Tabraiz Shamsi was the match-winner for the Qalandars, taking three wickets for just 11 runs from his four overs. His spell included 16 dot balls and no boundaries, making him the standout performer and earning him the Player of the Match award.

Victoria's Karima Gore fought hard, scoring 25 off 22 balls, but his dismissal in the 19th over left his team with just two wickets remaining. Needing 12 runs from the final over, Faheem Ashraf wrapped up the match for Lahore Qalandars by dismissing Jackson Smith on the third ball of the over.

The win tightens the competition in the GSL, with Lahore Qalandars, Victoria, and Guyana Amazon Warriors all on four points, each having won two matches and lost one. The remaining matches in the tournament will be crucial in determining the teams that will advance to the final. 

This victory keeps Lahore Qalandars in the hunt for a place in the final, while also putting them in a strong position as the tournament progresses.