Babar Azam's Second Century Propels Peshawar Zalmi into PSL Final

Key facts

• Babar Azam scored his second century of PSL 2026 in the qualifier against Islamabad United on April 28, 2026.
• Peshawar Zalmi defeated Islamabad United to secure a spot in the PSL final.
• Babar Azam broke a massive T20 record with this innings, joining Virat Kohli and Abhishek Sharma in an elite list.
• The qualifier match was played on April 28, 2026, with fans allowed for all playoff games.
• Babar and all-rounder Aaron Hardie powered Peshawar Zalmi into the final.
• Babar Azam delivered a captain's knock under pressure, guiding his team to victory.

A Captain's Knock Under Pressure

Babar Azam delivered a captain's knock under pressure, smashing his second century of the ongoing Pakistan Super League season to guide Peshawar Zalmi into the final. The unbeaten innings came in the qualifier against Islamabad United on April 28, 2026, a match that saw fans return to the stands for all playoff games. Babar's century was not just a personal milestone but a record-breaking feat. He broke a massive T20 record, joining Virat Kohli and Abhishek Sharma in an elite list of batters who have achieved a particular statistical landmark. The innings underscored Babar's ability to perform when the stakes are highest, a quality that has defined his captaincy throughout the tournament.

The Record That Places Babar Among Elite Company

Babar Azam's second century of PSL 2026 placed him alongside Virat Kohli and Abhishek Sharma in an exclusive T20 batting list. The exact nature of the record was not disclosed in the reports, but it is a testament to Babar's consistency and dominance in the format. This achievement adds to Babar's already impressive resume, which includes numerous records in international and franchise cricket. The century also helped Peshawar Zalmi secure a direct path to the final, avoiding the eliminator round. The record-breaking knock was a blend of calculated aggression and textbook technique, hallmarks of Babar's batting style.

The Partnership That Sealed the Final Berth

Babar Azam found an able ally in all-rounder Aaron Hardie, as the duo powered Peshawar Zalmi into the PSL final. Hardie's contribution with the bat complemented Babar's anchor role, ensuring the team posted a competitive total and chased down Islamabad United's target. The partnership was crucial in a high-pressure qualifier, where every run mattered. Hardie's ability to accelerate when needed allowed Babar to play his natural game. Together, they ensured Peshawar Zalmi's place in the final, a feat that had eluded the team in previous seasons.

Fans Return for Playoff Clashes

The Pakistan Super League 2026 playoff games, including the qualifier between Islamabad United and Peshawar Zalmi, were played with fans allowed in the stadium. This marked a significant step towards normalcy after years of restricted attendance due to security and pandemic concerns. The presence of a live crowd added to the intensity of the contest, with Babar Azam's century drawing roars of approval from the stands. The decision to allow fans for all playoff games was taken by the Pakistan Cricket Board, reflecting confidence in the security arrangements and the growing popularity of the league.

Babar's Season of Redemption

Babar Azam's second century of PSL 2026 caps a season of personal redemption. After a lean patch in international cricket, the batter has rediscovered his form in the domestic T20 league, silencing critics who questioned his place in the side. The century in the qualifier was a statement of intent, showing that Babar remains one of the most formidable batters in the shortest format. His ability to pace an innings and accelerate at the death has been on full display throughout the tournament. With the final now within reach, Babar will look to carry this momentum into the championship match.

What Lies Ahead for Peshawar Zalmi

Peshawar Zalmi will now await the winner of the eliminator to determine their opponent in the PSL 2026 final. The team's balanced lineup, led by Babar Azam's batting and supported by Aaron Hardie's all-round abilities, makes them strong contenders for the title. The final will be played at a neutral venue, with fans expected to pack the stadium. For Babar, it is an opportunity to add a PSL trophy to his captaincy resume, further cementing his legacy in Pakistan cricket. The team's performance in the qualifier has set high expectations, and the pressure will be on to deliver the championship.

A Record That Resonates Beyond the PSL

Babar Azam's record-breaking feat in the PSL qualifier has implications beyond the league. Joining Virat Kohli and Abhishek Sharma in an elite T20 list places him among the global elite in the format. This achievement comes at a crucial time for Pakistan cricket, which is looking to rebuild its T20 team ahead of future international tournaments. Babar's form will be central to those plans. The century also serves as a reminder of the depth of talent in the PSL, which continues to produce world-class performances. For Babar, the journey inward to rediscover his old mastery appears to have paid off.

The bottom line

• Babar Azam scored his second century of PSL 2026 in the qualifier, breaking a major T20 record.
• Peshawar Zalmi defeated Islamabad United to reach the final, powered by Babar and Aaron Hardie.
• Fans were allowed for all playoff games, marking a return to normalcy.
• Babar joined Virat Kohli and Abhishek Sharma in an elite T20 batting list with this innings.
• The century underscores Babar's ability to perform under pressure and his resurgence in form.
• Peshawar Zalmi will face the eliminator winner in the final, with Babar aiming for his first PSL title as captain.