Lahore: Bangladesh leg-spinner Rishad Hossain was awarded an iPhone by the Lahore Qalandars team management following his match-winning performance in their 95-run victory over Islamabad United in the second Qualifier of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The win propelled Lahore into the PSL final, where they are set to face the Quetta Gladiators for the championship title.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rishad rejoined the side for the playoffs after Bangladesh's series against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and took three wickets for 34 runs in the victory. Lahore won two knockout matches-Eliminator and second Qualifier-to seal their place in the final.
Lahore Qalandars have adopted a unique approach to motivate players by rewarding standout performances with iPhones. Rishad's accolade follows this tradition, recognizing his pivotal contribution in the high-stakes match. However, left-arm pacer Salman Mirza was the man of the match of the second Qualifier, taking three wickets for 16 runs. Lahore captain Shaheen Shah Afridi also took three wickets.
Rishad's three wickets included James Nisham, Salman Agha, and Islamabad captain Shadab Khan, who all have the reputation of skilled players against spin. In a video post on their social media outlet, Lahore Qalandars director Samin Rana was seen praising Rishad for taking the wicket of those three players. "You made us proud. You took the wicket of those who are believed to be better players against spin."
Rishad has so far claimed 12 wickets in six matches for Lahore Qalandars. The other three players who won the iPhone for their crucial performance in the second Qualifier were Salman Mirza, Kusal Perera, and Mohammad Naeem. Naeem scored 50 runs off 25 balls and Perera blasted 61 runs off 35 balls, contributing to Lahore's victory.