Zalmi boosted by Nahid Rana return for PSL 11 final
Peshawar Zalmi have received a timely boost ahead of the PSL 11 final after Bangladesh pacer Nahid Rana was cleared to feature in the summit clash.
The Pakistan Super League (PSL 11) final is scheduled to be played on Sunday at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, and Zalmi will now have the services of the 23-year-old fast bowler following approval from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
Nahid has already featured in four matches in the tournament, claiming seven wickets, but had missed recent fixtures after being recalled for Bangladesh’s three-match ODI series against New Zealand, which his side won 2-1.
NOC clears Nahid for final
The BCB issued a No Objection Certificate allowing Nahid Rana to return for the final, marking a key reinforcement for Zalmi’s bowling attack ahead of their fifth PSL final appearance.
Earlier, Zalmi owner Javed Afridi had publicly thanked newly appointed BCB chairman Tamim Iqbal for extending the NOCs of Nahid Rana and Shoriful Islam to allow their participation in the closing stages of the tournament.
“Brother @TamimOfficial28, thank you very much for giving Nahid and Shoriful a chance to play the last two matches. Zalmi fans want them to return to the team as soon as possible after their ODIs end. Many prayers and love,” Afridi wrote on X.
He later reiterated his gratitude, specifically confirming Nahid’s availability for the final: “Thank you, Brother Tamim, for permitting Nahid Rana to represent Peshawar Zalmi in the PSL 11 final match InshaAllah.”
Momentum from dominant qualifier win
Zalmi enter the final on the back of a commanding performance in the Qualifier, where they posted 221 for 7 after being put in to bat at the National Bank Stadium.
Captain Babar Azam led the charge with a superb 103 off 59 deliveries, striking 12 fours and four sixes. The innings marked his second century of the ongoing edition and the fourth of his PSL career, earning him the Player of the Match award.
Islamabad United, in response, were bowled out for 151 in 18.4 overs. Aaron Hardie led the bowling effort with three wickets, while Sufiyan Muqeem and Mohammad Basit picked up two each. Michael Bracewell and Khurram Shahzad chipped in with one wicket apiece.
Playoff picture taking shape
The playoff stage continues alongside Zalmi’s preparations for the final. Hyderabad Kingsmen are set to face Multan Sultans in Eliminator 1 on Wednesday.
The winner of that contest will progress to Eliminator 2, where they will meet Islamabad United for a place in the final.
What Nahid’s return means for Zalmi
Nahid Rana’s availability adds depth to Zalmi’s bowling unit heading into the title decider. With seven wickets in four matches already, his return strengthens a side that is coming off a dominant Qualifier win and now heads into its fifth PSL final with momentum and a reinforced attack.
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Babar Azam equals three PSL records with Qualifier century
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