The Pakistan Super League has changed how people watch and enjoy cricket in Pakistan, introducing era-defining T20 matches. Even though six teams are fighting for victory each year, the Lahore Qalandars have created a distinct reputation. Popular due to their ardent fans, charismatic leaders and commitment to developing talent, the Qalandars now play a major role in the PSL. In this post, we’ll learn about the PSL journey of the Qalandars, what they have attained, their standout players and what makes them unique.
The Beginnings and Main Thoughts
In 2015, QALCO merged with the Qalandars, who now own one of the cricket league’s original teams. In contrast to most teams, Lahore Qalandars chose to focus on player development. They started the “Player Development Program” (PDP) to look for and guide talented players from all over Pakistan, mainly those in less privileged regions. Many players from this project have participated in international tournaments with Pakistan.
Performance Over the Years
In the early seasons, Qalandars were not able to play consistently. In spite of securing good players, their play rarely measured up, as they tended to end up close to the bottom. The narrative began to change after the 2020 edition of the PSL. Led by an interesting mix of players and a better structure, the Qalandars came to the finals of PSL 2020 but lost to Karachi Kings. The result showed that they were no longer considered underdogs.
Lahore Qalandars made history this year by being the first team ever to win the PSL title, as they outplayed Multan Sultans in a final full of excitement. They kept playing well in the next seasons, further proving they were one of the leading soccer teams.
PSL 2025 Final: A Night to Remember
Qalandars played the Quetta Gladiators in the PSL 2025 final at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on May 25, 2025. The final of 2023 will go down as a thrilling moment in PSL history.
Quetta Gladiators Innings
The Quetta Gladiators chose to bat first after winning the toss, making 201/9 from their 20 overs. Hasan Nawaz led the charging with 76 runs off just 43 balls. Qalandars’ Shaheen Shah Afridi was the main bowler with 3/24, and Haris Rauf took 2/41.
Qalandars Innings
With a big target of 202 set for them, the Qalandars still showed incredible resilience. Thanks to his sensational 62 runs from only 31 balls, Kusal Perera was named Player of the Match. Mohammad Naeem showed what he can do in big matches, hitting six sixes and scoring 46 runs off just 27 balls. It ended with Sikandar Raza, back from international games in England only 10 minutes earlier, helping his team score the runs it needed to win with a single ball left.
Their third PSL win means Qalandars are now counted among the league’s most successful franchises.
Star Players and Strengths
Most of their achievements are thanks to their talented players. Several names come to mind as we look at the success of the Qalandars.
- Shaheen Shah Afridi: Shaheen, who is both a terrific fast bowler and currently leads the Qalandars, is one of the top players in international cricket. Because of his speed, accuracy and leadership, he is the heart of the team.
- Fakhar Zaman: Aggressive batting from Fakhar Zaman has resulted in him being known as a power opener who often steals the game. He has made a big difference in how Lahore gets off to a good start when it matters.
- Rashid Khan: Lahore has seen massive improvement thanks to Rashid Khan. His impressive bowling and ability to take wickets mean he is very important in the middle overs.
- Haris Rauf: A product of the Qalandars’ Player Development Program, Haris has turned into a top fast-bowler. Lahore Quetta has won a lot due to its powerful spells and perfect bowling.
- David Wiese: The experienced South African ever-present has delivered for Lahore, especially when matches are on the line.
- Kusal Perera: Kusal Perera shone in the final of the PSL 2025 by scoring a key innings that took his team to victory.
- Mohammad Naeem: In the final, Naeem showed he has the potential to be a constant in the batting order for his team.
- Sikandar Raza: Despite coming into the match just before it began, Zimbabwe’s all-rounder played an important role and stayed highly committed.
Fan Following and Culture
The Qalandars are best known for their loyal and passionate fans. No matter if it’s at a huge stadium or online, the fans fill the atmosphere with their endless energy and great loyalty. Lahore residents are very proud of the team, which turns every game into an event enjoyed by all.
In addition, the slogan ‘Dama Dam Mast’ shows how Lahore’s cricketers bring both cricket and Sufi traditions together. The brand, tunes and activities they produce connect well with fans in many other aspects.
Contribution to Pakistani Cricket
Qalandars have done much more than be a franchise by helping cricket grow in Pakistan. Thanks to the Player Development Program, they’ve found and trained Haris Rauf, Dilbar Hussain and Salman Irshad, players who could have been overlooked.
It’s good to see them offer trials far from developed areas and training, experience abroad and valuable guidance. Thanks to this method, both the Qalandars and Pakistan’s national cricket team have improved.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Qalandars
As the Qalandars combine talented and experienced players, clever management and a rising reputation for success, they are well prepared for future PSL seasons. They have already exhibited how their willpower, methods and passion can bring them from little to big.
They strive in innovation, performance and caring for people, which has made them a noticeable team everywhere. No matter if they win another title or see more athletes develop, the Qalandars still hold all the important elements to keep succeeding.
Conclusion
Beyond being a team in the PSL, Lahore Qalandars respectfully represent enduring hard work, commitment and improvement. Overcoming early elimination, they kept working hard and finally won three championships. The team stands for Pakistan cricket with dedicated fans, an emphasis on player growth and a positive winning approach.
The success of the Pakistan Super League is also connected to the meteoric rise of the Lahore Qalandars, who help us realise that effort and confidence can get anyone through.