SUNDAY TIMES WEB DESK:Shane Watson’s half-century and a brilliant last over helped Quetta Gladiators to seal a final spot this season, the team’s third PSL final in four years.
Watson’s 71 runs off 43 balls and 1-10 last over bowling was the decisive factor in beating Peshawar Zalmi by 10 runs in the qualifier at a sold-out National Stadium.
Gladiators won by 10 runs as skipper Darren Sammy (46) and Kieron Pollard (44) took the team to the final over in 187 run-chase but were triumphed by Watson.
Bowling after nearly a year and with hardly any legs to take half his normal run-up, the former Australian all-rounder dominated the day. Rookie pacer Mohammad Hasnain took two wickets, while Rossouw, Fawad Ahmed and Mohammad Nawaz took one each.
Fawad was forced off the field and taken to a hospital after a direct hit by batsman Imam-ul-Haq smashed his face.
Watson was given the Player of the Match award for his phenomenal performance, while Sarfaraz is being appreciated all across for taking the team to the tournament’s final for the third time.