From PDP to PSL: The Story of Salman Ali Mirza & Ahmed Daniyal

Qalandars’ PDP Continues to Shape Stars

May 18, 2025 – Rawalpindi

In a high-pressure Pakistan Super League match, Lahore Qalandars were fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive. Their hero? Salman Ali Mirza, a rising star shaped by the Qalandars’ renowned Player Development Program (PDP). On the other side stood Ahmed Daniyal, another PDP graduate — now representing Peshawar Zalmi.

Ahmed Daniyal

Salman Ali Mirza

Salman Ali Mirza and Ahmed Daniyal

But this wasn’t just a cricket match. It was a dramatic showdown between two best friends, two former teammates, and two Qalandars-trained warriors — a story of brotherhood from PDP to PSL. Every over, every move on the field reflected the discipline, skill, and fighting spirit they had learned through the Lahore Qalandars’ Player Development Program. Now, that training was being put to the ultimate test — as they battled for rival teams, under the nation’s spotlight.

Salman Ali Mirza: 4 Wickets of Fire and Fight

Salman Ali Mirza bowled a game-changing spell early in the second innings, turning the tide decisively in Lahore’s favor. His second over saw two wickets in two balls, dismissing Mohammad Haris and Max Bryant, both bowled through sheer pace and accuracy.

• Bowling Figures:
  3 overs | 31 runs | 4 wickets

• Wickets:

  • Mohammad Haris (bowled)

  • Max Bryant (bowled)

  • Additional 2 wickets later in the innings, completing his four-wicket haul

He earned the Man of the Match award, and rightly so — as his opening burst broke the back of Zalmi’s top order.

Ahmed Daniyal: Fighting Spirit for Zalmi

On the other end, Ahmed Daniyal, once celebrated in Lahore Qalandars colors, gave Qalandars a serious scare. Representing Peshawar Zalmi, he bowled tightly and also chipped in with a powerful cameo with the bat.

• Bowling:
  3 overs | 22 runs | 2 wickets

• Batting:
  A vital lower-order innings that kept Zalmi’s hopes alive till the death overs

Despite the defeat, his performance was a reminder of the PDP’s unmatched quality, producing players who can star for any team.

Best Friends, Opposite Ends

The emotional heartbeat of the match was the duel between Salman Ali Mirza and Ahmed Daniyal. Once best friends, roommates, and rising stars together in the Qalandars camp — they now stood against each other, giving everything for their respective franchises. This was not just a cricket match; it was a PDP alumni showcase — a true ‘From PDP to PSL’ moment.

A Testament to Lahore’s PDP

From Salman’s fiery spell to Daniyal’s gritty resistance, this match told the story of Lahore Qalandars’ player development legacy. Both stars began their journey in trials and camps — now, they’re lighting up the PSL stage.

Qalandars Into the Playoffs

Thanks to the brilliance of Salman Ali Mirza and a strong all-around team effort, Lahore Qalandars secured their place in the PSL 2025 Playoffs. It was a night of redemption, rivalry, and remarkable talent — all built from within.

Also Read: Mohammad Naeem: Rising Star of Lahore Qalandars in PSL 2025