Babar Azam’s Historic Century Propels Peshawar Zalmi to PSL 2026 Finals
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A Masterclass in Lahore: Babar Azam Leads Peshawar Zalmi to the Finals
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 has witnessed a breathtaking display of batting prowess as Babar Azam delivered a match-winning performance that was as statistically significant as it was visually stunning. In a high-stakes encounter against Islamabad United, the former Pakistan skipper played an innings of sheer dominance, ensuring that Peshawar Zalmi became the first team to secure a spot in the grand finals.
Babar Azam’s innings was a clinic in T20 batting. Scoring a magnificent 103 runs from just 59 deliveries, the 31-year-old right-hander dismantled the Islamabad bowling attack with precision and power. His century was punctuated by 12 boundaries and four massive sixes, providing the backbone for a towering total of 221 runs. This performance wasn’t just about the runs; it was about the timing and the intent that allowed Peshawar to post a score that felt insurmountable.
Rewriting the T20 Record Books
Beyond the immediate victory, this century marks a historic milestone in the shortest format of the game. With this ton, Babar Azam has now scored nine centuries as a captain in T20 cricket, officially becoming the most successful captain in the format in terms of hundreds. In doing so, he has surpassed the previous record held by former South African captain Faf du Plessis, who had eight centuries under his belt while leading his side.
The updated list of the most centuries by a T20 captain now reads as follows:
- Babar Azam: 9 Centuries
- Faf du Plessis: 8 Centuries
- Michael Klinger: 7 Centuries
- Virat Kohli & James Vince: 5 Centuries each
The Kohli Comparison: Equalling Greatness
For years, cricket pundits and fans have drawn parallels between Babar Azam and India’s Virat Kohli. Following this match, the comparison has gained new statistical weight. Babar has now equalled both Virat Kohli and Abhishek Sharma in an exclusive list of batters who have scored eight T20 centuries on their home turf. For Babar, achieving this feat in Pakistan reinforces his status as the premier batter in his home conditions, mirroring Kohli’s legendary dominance within the borders of India.
Match Analysis: How Peshawar Dominated
The momentum was in Peshawar’s favor from the outset. After Islamabad skipper Shadab Khan won the toss and elected to bowl, Peshawar Zalmi wasted no time in taking control. Mohammad Haris provided an explosive start, smashing 35 runs off just 16 balls, including five fours and two sixes. The opening partnership was a whirlwind, adding 72 runs in a mere 38 balls before Shadab finally broke through to dismiss Haris.
However, the dismissal of Haris only paved the way for a more calculated assault. Babar Azam found an ideal partner in Kusal Mendis. The duo shared a composed yet aggressive second-wicket partnership of 84 runs from 41 balls, effectively batting Islamabad out of the contest. Towards the end of the innings, Aaron Hardie played a vital supporting role, contributing 20 crucial runs as wickets fell at regular intervals, helping the team reach the formidable total of 221.
Islamabad’s Collapse and the Hardie Factor
Chasing 222 was a mountain too high for Islamabad United. The pressure of the scoreboard led to a steady collapse, and they were eventually bowled out for 151, resulting in a comprehensive 70-run victory for Peshawar Zalmi. While the batters took the headlines in the first half, Aaron Hardie proved his worth with the ball, claiming an impressive 3/24 in his four-over spell.
He was well-supported by Sufiyan Muqeem and Mohammed Basit, who both claimed two wickets each. The only silver lining for Islamabad was a fighting 44 from Sameer Minhas, who was the top scorer for the opposition but lacked the support needed to mount a serious challenge.
The Road to the Final
With Peshawar Zalmi already waiting in the finals, the race for the second spot is now heating up. The upcoming schedule is as follows:
- Wednesday: Multan Sultans vs Hyderabad Kingsmen in the Eliminator match.
- Friday: The winner of the Eliminator will face Islamabad United in the second qualifier.
- Sunday: The winner of the second qualifier will face Peshawar Zalmi in the PSL 2026 Final at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
As the tournament reaches its climax, all eyes will be on Babar Azam to see if he can carry this incredible form into the final and lift the trophy for Peshawar Zalmi.
