Fakhar Zaman Feels He’s Not Playing to His Full Potential

Lahore Qalandars finally opened their account in PSL X with a dominant 79-run victory over Quetta Gladiators on Sunday night, but even in triumph, opener Fakhar Zaman wasn’t completely satisfied with his own contribution.

Despite top-scoring with a brisk 67 off 39 balls — laced with eight boundaries and two sixes — the seasoned left-hander admitted he never quite found his rhythm at the start of the innings.

“I still feel I didn’t play in my full flow during this innings,” Fakhar said candidly during the post-match media interaction while accepting his Player of the Match award. “The pitch wasn’t allowing me to play freely at the start. But the way Abdullah [Shafique] made things easier for me, and then Billings later on, luckily, my innings was covered up well.”

Fakhar’s comments offered a glimpse into the internal standards he holds himself to, even after posting a vital knock that laid the foundation for Lahore’s imposing total of 219/6 — their highest of the season so far.

Lahore, having lost their opening game, needed their top order to step up — and it was Fakhar and Abdullah Shafique who obliged. The duo added 84 runs for the second wicket, with Abdullah’s fluent 36 off 21 ensuring pressure never mounted despite a cautious start. Fakhar, known for his power-hitting in the Powerplay, admitted he had to alter his tempo against a surface that initially didn’t offer any help.

While Fakhar set the stage, it was Sam Billings who stole the spotlight at the death. The Englishman’s unbeaten 50 off just 19 deliveries, at a staggering strike rate of 263.15, propelled Lahore past the 200-mark and shifted all momentum toward the Qalandars.

Despite the win, Fakhar Zaman still seems to be finding his feet at the highest level of cricket since returning from injury. If he finds the form he is looking for, it could spell trouble for the bowlers who have to face the Qalandars.

Lahore Qalandars will return to action tomorrow against the Karachi Kings, with Fakhar hoping to find the “full flow” he’s chasing. Given his history of bouncing back stronger, opposition bowlers would be wise not to misread this 67-run ‘struggle’ as a sign of weakness.

If this was Fakhar Zaman not at his best, PSL X might still have fireworks to come.

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