Babar, Ayub Star as Peshawar Zalmi Crush Quetta Gladiators, Book Playoff Spot

Peshawar Zalmi Dominate Quetta Gladiators, Secure Playoff Berth in Pakistan Super League

RAWALPINDI, Pakistan - Peshawar Zalmi stormed into the playoffs of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) with a resounding 76-run victory over Quetta Gladiators on Friday. The triumph was orchestrated by a brilliant batting performance from Babar Azam and Saim Ayub, who overshadowed Akeal Hosein's hat-trick.

Quetta's batting woes continued as they were dismissed for a paltry 120 in 17.5 overs, chasing Peshawar's imposing total of 196-8. Ayub, who has excelled in his new all-rounder role, played a pivotal role in dismantling Quetta's top order, claiming the wickets of skipper Rilee Rossouw and Khawaja Nafay in quick succession.

Babar Azam, the league's leading batter, continued his impressive form with a blistering 53 off 30 deliveries, studded with nine fours and a six. His innings propelled Peshawar to a formidable total.

Despite Hosein's hat-trick in the final over, Peshawar's batting depth proved too much for Quetta. Ayub opened the innings with a brisk 30 off 14 balls, while Rovman Powell (28 not out) and Naveen-ul-Haq (10 not out) added a crucial 39 runs in the closing stages.

The victory propelled Peshawar to second place in the standings, with a chance to secure a top-two finish in their final league game against Islamabad United on Sunday. Quetta, on the other hand, faces an uphill battle to reach the playoffs, needing to win at least one of their remaining two matches.

Tags: #PSL, #PakistanSuperLeague, #PeshawarZalmi, #QuettaGladiators, #BabarAzam