Sikandar Raza’s Incredible Journey: From Nottingham to PSL Glory with Lahore Qalandars

The final of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 had no shortage of drama, but one story that stood out was the incredible commitment and whirlwind journey of Zimbabwean all-rounder Sikandar Raza, who made it to Lahore just minutes before the toss — and went on to play a crucial role in Lahore Qalandars’ title-winning performance.

According to Lahore Qalandars’ official social media, Raza entered Gaddafi Stadium moments before the match began. Just 10 minutes before the toss, at 6:50 PM, his flight landed at Allama Iqbal International Airport, Lahore. A video posted at 6:54 PM showed him exiting the airport, surrounded by Qalandars’ staff and security personnel rushing him to the stadium.

This dramatic arrival wasn’t just luck — it was the result of a call made 24 hours earlier from Nottingham, England, where Qalandars’ owner Sameen Rana contacted Raza, asking if he could make it for the final. Without hesitation, Raza accepted the challenge, beginning an extraordinary journey across borders to represent his team when it mattered most.

Upon arriving at Gaddafi Stadium, he was warmly welcomed by the team’s owners and fellow players — a moment captured and shared widely by the franchise. But Raza didn’t just show up; he delivered. His presence and performance added significant value, helping Lahore Qalandars clinch their third PSL title.