Ahmed Daniyal Shines for Peshawar Zalmi as Babar Azam’s Leadership Earns Praise
In a high-stakes PSL 10 season, Peshawar Zalmi’s playoff hopes were kept alive thanks to a stellar performance from fast bowler Ahmed Daniyal, whose game-changing spell came at a critical juncture.
Daniyal’s fiery bowling figures of 3 for 17 dismantled the Multan Sultans for just 108 runs, securing a vital win for Zalmi. His efforts not only earned him the man-of-the-match award but also played a key role in Zalmi’s dominant chase, which was completed inside 13 overs.
Speaking after the match, Daniyal credited captain Babar Azam for his success.
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“This is my first time playing under Babar bhai’s captaincy, and he’s incredibly supportive,” said the 27-year-old pacer. “Even when I was going for boundaries, he kept backing me. That kind of support really lifts a player’s confidence.”
Daniyal’s confidence was evident on the field as he bounced back from a shaky start to claim crucial wickets, including Tayyab Tahir, David Willey, and Ubaid Shah, which helped dismantle Multan’s batting lineup.
His vote of confidence in Babar Azam comes at a time when the star batter’s leadership is under scrutiny — even from some within his circle. Daniyal’s endorsement serves as a timely boost for the under-pressure skipper, especially as Zalmi remains locked in a tight playoff battle in the PSL 2025 standings.
The upcoming clash against Karachi Kings on May 8 now carries even more weight, with Zalmi’s momentum swinging back in their favor. Daniyal’s breakthrough performance may have just secured him a permanent spot in the playing XI, proving that belief and strong leadership can be the deciding factors under pressure
