Peshawar Zalmi have been crowned champions of the Pakistan Super League 2026 after defeating Hyderabad Kingsmen in the final.
The victory marks their second PSL title, achieved with a dominant all-round performance in Lahore.
Hyderabad Kingsmen were bowled out for 129 runs in 18 overs after being asked to bat first in the final of the Pakistan Super League at Gaddafi Stadium.
Despite a fighting half-century from Saim Ayub (54), the Kingsmen struggled against disciplined bowling.
Captain Marnus Labuschagne scored 20 runs, while Glenn Maxwell was dismissed for a duck, as wickets fell at regular intervals.
Hardie leads Zalmi bowling attack
Aaron Hardie delivered a match-winning spell, taking 4 wickets for 27 runs, dismantling the Kingsmen batting line-up.
He was supported by Nahid Rana and Mohammad Basit, who picked up two wickets each, restricting Hyderabad to a below-par total.
Zalmi’s shaky start in the chase
Chasing 130, Peshawar Zalmi suffered early setbacks as Mohammad Ali struck twice in the opening over, removing both Mohammad Haris and Babar Azam.
At one stage, Zalmi were reduced to 7/2, putting them under early pressure in the final.
Aaron Hardie, however, anchored the chase with a composed and aggressive innings.
He was joined by Abdul Samad, and the pair built an 85-run match-defining partnership.
Samad contributed a crucial 48 runs off 34 balls before being dismissed in the 15th over.
Hardie remained unbeaten throughout the innings, scoring 56 off 39 balls, guiding Zalmi to victory.
Zalmi secure second PSL title
Peshawar Zalmi reached the target with five wickets in hand and 28 balls remaining, sealing their second PSL championship.
Their first title came in 2017 under the leadership of former captain Darren Sammy.
This win also marks a milestone for current captain Babar Azam, who lifts his first major franchise trophy.
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