LAHORE: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi appreciated the passion and discipline of the cricket fans who attended the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 final at Gaddafi Stadium.
In a statement issued by the cricket board, Naqvi praised the crowd’s overwhelming support and sportsmanship throughout the high-level encounter.
“Cricket fans showed remarkable discipline and great enthusiasm during the final at Gaddafi Stadium, creating an electric atmosphere with their passion and energy. I was truly impressed by the love and support shown by the people of Lahore for the game of cricket,” said Naqvi.
He further noted the appreciation shown by the crowd for both the competing teams.
“The spectators wholeheartedly applauded both the teams and thoroughly enjoyed the match, proving once again that the citizens of Lahore are unwavering and deeply rooted towards cricket,” he added.
Speaking to the media after the final presentation ceremony, Naqvi acknowledged the challenges faced in organizing the tournament but expressed satisfaction at its successful completion.
“It was a very difficult time, but by the grace of Allah we managed to conduct the PSL smoothly and successfully. A total of 32,600 fans attended the final and the crowd was also good during the playoffs. Next year, new stadiums will be added along with the existing stadiums,” he said.
“PSL 12 will be bigger and better than this edition,” he added.
In a thrilling final at the same venue, Peshawar Zalmi beat debutants Hyderabad Kingsmen by five wickets to mark a memorable finish to the tournament.
Jolly captain Babar Azam, who opted to field first, paid off as the Kingsmen were bowled out for 129 in 18 overs despite a solid half-century from Saim Ayub.
The left-handed batsman stood firm amid the slump, scoring 54 off 50 balls, hitting five fours and two sixes.
In reply, Zalmi successfully chased down the target of 130 runs with 5 wickets and 28 balls to spare. It was anchored by a crucial fifth-wicket chase of 85 between Aaron Hardy and Abdul Samad, which revived the innings after Zalmi slumped to 40/4.
Samad played aggressively and scored 48 runs off 34 balls.