PSL 11 Qualifier: Babar Azam’s Century Sends Zalmi to Final

The PSL 11 Qualifier at National Bank Stadium in Karachi on April 28, 2026 produced a statement win for Peshawar Zalmi. Captain Babar Azam struck a record-equalling 103 off 59 balls, guiding Zalmi to 221 for 7 in 20 overs, in front of a packed crowd marking PSL’s return of fans.

Match Details

Babar Azam’s 103 came off 59 balls, with 12 fours and four sixes. He opened the gates with Mohammad Haris, who added 35 off 16 as the two built a 72-run opening stand before Haris fell. Kusal Mendis then anchored 41 off 26, forging an 84-run third-wicket stand with Babar to propel Zalmi to 221 for seven.

Islamabad United’s chase never got going as they were bowled out for 151 in 18.4 overs. Sameer Minhas top-scored with 44 off 23, Mohsin Riaz 25, and Imad Wasim 22. In Zalmi’s bowling, Aaron Hardie claimed 3-24, Sufyan Moqim 2-25, and Basit 2-19; Shadab Khan finished with 3-42 for Islamabad; Gleeson picked up 2-45.

Player of the Match: Babar Azam.

The win sends Zalmi into the final for the first time in five seasons. Eliminator 1 will see Multan Sultans take on Hyderabad Kingsmen in Lahore on April 29, with the winner facing Islamabad United on May 1 for a final berth.

Why it matters

Babar’s century propelled PSL 11 into a historic run, equalling Fakhar Zaman’s 588 PSL runs for the most in a single season and marking his fourth 500-plus PSL season (2021, 2023, 2024, 2026). He also posted his second PSL century of the edition, matching Usman Khan’s feat from 2024. Zalmi’s depth was on show as Haris and Mendis chipped in valuable knocks.