On May 27, 2025, the Lahore Qalandars etched their name in history once again by clinching their third Pakistan Super League (PSL) title. But the real celebration wasn’t just about the trophy—it was about the people, the emotions, and the unforgettable moments that followed. In a team room filled with cheers, laughter, and heartfelt gratitude, team owner Sameen Rana and captain Shaheen Shah Afridi led a victory speech that celebrated not only cricketing brilliance but also unity, loyalty, and love.
From honoring star players and unsung heroes to announcing iPhones and generous bonuses for the entire team and support staff, the evening became a defining moment in Qalandars’ legacy—where respect met reward.
Shaheen Shah Afridi: Four Years, Three Titles – A Legacy of Leadership
At the center of the celebration stood Shaheen Shah Afridi, the most successful captain in PSL history. His calm under pressure and a game-changing spell in the final—claiming two crucial wickets—earned thunderous applause. Sameen Rana hailed him as a “big match player” whose leadership turned the tide in Qalandars’ favor. Yet, in true Shaheen fashion, he deflected praise, saying, “This trophy belongs to the entire Qalandars family.”
Heroes Honored: From Fakhar to Rauf
The speech also shone a light on Qalandars’ stalwarts:
- Fakhar Zaman, affectionately called Fakhre-Qalandar, was recognized for being the franchise’s all-time highest run scorer. “These three trophies are incomplete without you,” said Rana.
- Abdullah Shafique, the dependable backbone of the batting order, earned high praise.
- Haris Rauf, despite a head injury in the final, delivered a fiery spell and took a stunning catch, symbolizing the Qalandars’ fighting spirit.
Emerging Stars and the Social Media Team Shine
One of the most heartwarming moments was the recognition of Mohammad Naeem, the PSL 10 Emerging Player, who turned his season around with resilience and hard work. Rana praised him: “You took a chance on your performance and ability.”
The often-overlooked support crew got their spotlight too. From coaches Amjad and Kashif, to team doctor Tanveer, and operations manager Faooq, each name was celebrated. A special nod was given to Umar Farooq and the Qalandars social media team, applauded for creating “the best content Lahore Qalandars has ever had.”
The Sikandar Raza Miracle
The most emotional moment came when Sikandar Raza, after a grueling travel journey from Birmingham to Dubai, arrived hours before the final—and delivered. Rana called it a miracle, and in a moving gesture, the team placed the trophy at his feet. Raza’s words—“If we put the team’s needs ahead of ourselves, miracles do happen”—encapsulated the Qalandars’ core values of selflessness and unity.
iPhones and Bonuses: Rewards for All
The celebrations didn’t end with words. Sameen Rana made the night unforgettable by announcing iPhones and bonuses for the entire squad, including players, coaches, analysts, and social media staff. “There’s an iPhone for everyone,” he declared—sending waves of cheer through the room.
Gold-Plated iPhones: A Tradition Rooted in Qalandars’ History
The mention of “iPhone Gold” hinted at premium rewards—likely the customised gold-plated iphones. This extravagant tradition began not in the PSL, but during the Abu Dhabi T20 League final (2018), where the Qalandars first introduced bonus and iPhones to celebrate their international win.
But the generosity didn’t stop there.
Rana confirmed that everyone would receive a bonus, generously funded by the team’s USD 500,000 prize money. Veteran all-rounder Sikandar Raza suggested that younger players should receive double bonuses, and Rana agreed without hesitation. The move underlined the franchise’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent like Naeem and rewarding hard work.
A Culture of Respect and Recognition
The Lahore Qalandars’ celebration was more than just a victory party—it was a reflection of their family-first philosophy. Whether it was a player, analyst, doctor, or media manager, each person was made to feel seen, valued, and respected. Foreign stars like Shakib Al Hasan and Kusal Perera expressed deep gratitude, while local legends like Asif Ali, who played through pain, were applauded for their professionalism.
As Rana urged the team to “earn with respect,” the evening became a celebration of both excellence and ethics.
Conclusion: A Legacy Built on Heart
The Lahore Qalandars’ PSL 10 victory is more than a championship—it’s a story of heart, hustle, and humanity. With Shaheen Afridi’s leadership, Sameen Rana’s appreciation, and a team that treats every member like family, the Qalandars have built a culture that other franchises only dream of.
The iPhones and bonuses are symbols, not just of reward, but of belonging. And in a world that often forgets the people behind the scenes, Lahore Qalandars reminded everyone that every role matters, every effort counts.
As laughter echoed, water fights broke out, and prayers were whispered, the Qalandars didn’t just win a trophy—they solidified their legacy as the most united and respected franchise in PSL history.
Also Read: Lahore Qalandars’ Journey in PSL 2025: A Tale of Resilience, Triumph, and Legacy