Lahore Qalandars: Pakistan Super League Champions
Lahore Qalandars broke their PSL title drought in 2022 and retained the trophy in 2023, becoming the first back-to-back PSL champions. Learn about the team's journey, key players, and their rabid fan base.
Lahore Qalandars are one of the founding franchises of the Pakistan Super League, established in 2016 and based in Lahore — Pakistan's cultural capital and the city considered the heartland of Pakistani cricket. Their journey from perennial near-misses to back-to-back champions between 2022 and 2023 is one of the most remarkable franchise cricket turnarounds in recent memory.
The Long Wait for a Title
For the first six seasons of the PSL, Lahore Qalandars were notably unlucky — reaching the final multiple times but unable to convert. They lost three finals before 2022, building a reputation as cricket's bridesmaid. Their passionate fan base in Lahore, however, never wavered, and the Qalandars remained the most-followed team on social media among PSL franchises.
Back-to-Back Champions
In PSL 2022, Shaheen Afridi's bowling and Fakhar Zaman's batting led Lahore Qalandars to their first ever PSL title. In 2023, they retained the trophy — becoming the first PSL franchise to win consecutive titles. Shaheen Afridi, as captain in 2023, delivered a performance of high-class fast bowling that underscored Lahore's dominance that season.
Academy and Development
The Qalandars franchise is also known for its investment in youth development through the Lahore Qalandars Cricket Academy. Shaheen Afridi himself is a product of the academy system, having been developed by the franchise before becoming Pakistan's premier fast bowler and a global T20 superstar.
Frequently asked questions
When did Lahore Qalandars win their first PSL title?
In PSL 2022, defeating Multan Sultans in the final.
Who is the most famous player developed by Lahore Qalandars?
Shaheen Shah Afridi — who emerged from their academy and went on to become Pakistan's premier Test and T20 fast bowler.