Holders Qalandars beat Zalmi to stay alive

[Getty Images]

Defending champions Lahore Qalandars kept their play-off hopes in the Pakistan Super League alive with a crucial win against leaders Peshawar Zalmi in their final league-stage fixture.

The win lifted the Qalandars into fourth place, overtaking Karachi Kings on net run-rate and knocking them out of the contention for a place in the next stage.

But their play-off spot is not yet secure, with Hyderabad Kingsmen able to move level on 10 points if they defeat bottom side Rawalpindiz in their final game on Sunday.

Peshawar posted a competitive total of 199-4 batting first, led by Michael Bracewell's 83 from 45 balls and captain Babar Azam's 59.

After losing two wickets inside five overs, Babar's composed innings steadied the innings before Bracewell accelerated through the middle overs and Iftikhar Ahmed's 14-ball 27 ensured a strong finish.

In their response, Qalandars opener Fakhar Zaman scored an unbeaten 58 off 47 balls while more aggressive contributions from Abdullah Shafique, Sikandar Raza and Daniel Sams powered them past the target with three balls remaining.

Zalmi, who suffered their first defeat of the campaign, finished top with 17 points.

• PSL fixtures & results
• Table

[BBC]