Lahore Qalandars begin GSL 2026 campaign with commanding win over Perth Scorchers XI
Lahore Qalandars begin GSL 2026 campaign with commanding win over Perth Scorchers XI
GUYANA: Lahore Qalandars launched their ExxonMobil Global Super League (GSL) 2026 campaign in impressive fashion, defeating Perth Scorchers XI by 16 runs in the tournament opener at the Providence Stadium on Wednesday, thanks to sparkling half-centuries from Shayan Jahangir and Farhan Yousaf, followed by a disciplined bowling performance led by Mohammad Imran.
After being invited to bat first by Perth Scorchers XI captain Ashton Turner, the Pakistan Super League (PSL) champions recovered from an early setback to post a competitive 171/7 in their allotted 20 overs.
Opener Shayan Jahangir laid the foundation with an enterprising 65 off 45 balls, striking eight boundaries and three towering sixes. Displaying excellent timing and composure, he anchored the innings before being dismissed in the 14th over after giving Lahore Qalandars a strong platform.
The momentum was maintained brilliantly by Pakistan Under-19 captain Farhan Yousaf, who produced an explosive unbeaten 50 off just 23 deliveries. His innings, laced with five fours and three sixes,
provided the late acceleration that lifted the Qalandars beyond the 170-run mark. The youngster’s match-winning knock earned him the Player of the Match award.
Apart from the two half-centurions, only Abdullah Shafique (12) and skipper Michael Bracewell (10) managed to reach double figures as Perth’s bowlers kept the middle order under pressure. Fast bowler Jhye Richardson was the standout performer for the Scorchers with 3-37, while Brody Couch claimed two wickets. D’Arcy Short and Ashton Agar picked up one wicket each.
In reply, Perth Scorchers XI never truly gained momentum despite a few promising partnerships and were restricted to 155/7, falling 16 runs short of the target.
Pakistan batter Usman Khan top-scored with a determined 41 off 32 balls, including three boundaries and two sixes, while veteran West Indies opener Andre Fletcher provided an aggressive start with 35 from 22 deliveries.
Dian Forrester contributed a steady 23, but the required run rate continued to climb as Lahore’s bowlers maintained tight control.
The Qalandars’ bowling attack delivered a disciplined all-round performance, with Mohammad Imran producing outstanding figures of 2-18 in four overs to stifle the Scorchers’ chase. Leg-spinner Usama Mir also claimed two wickets, while Ali Shabbir and captain Michael Bracewell chipped in with one wicket apiece.
The comprehensive victory gives Lahore Qalandars an ideal start to their GSL 2026 campaign and reinforces the franchise’s strategy of combining experienced internationals with emerging Pakistani talent.
The impressive performances of youngsters, particularly Farhan Yousaf, will provide further encouragement as the Qalandars continue their pursuit of the Global Super League title.
With confidence high after an emphatic opening victory, Lahore Qalandars will now look to maintain their winning momentum when they face Desert Vipers in their second group-stage fixture.
