When the Pakistan Super League began in 2016, Lahore Qalandars quickly became one of the most talked-about franchises—not only because of their flamboyant branding and passionate fanbase, but also because of the rollercoaster nature of their performances. While the team struggled in the early seasons, they gradually evolved into one of the strongest sides in the league. Central to this transformation have been a handful of standout players whose performances, consistency, and loyalty have shaped the identity of the Qalandars.
Here’s a look at the top 5 best players in Lahore Qalandars history—the men who have left a lasting mark on the team’s journey in the PSL.
1. Shaheen Shah Afridi
Without a doubt, Shaheen Shah Afridi has been the heartbeat of Lahore Qalandars. Rising through the ranks as a teenage prodigy, he has now become one of the most feared fast bowlers in world cricket. His ability to swing the new ball at high pace and deliver pinpoint yorkers at the death makes him a complete package. But beyond his bowling, Shaheen’s leadership has elevated the team’s stature. Under his captaincy, Lahore Qalandars finally lifted the PSL trophy, and his aggressive, fearless style reflects exactly what the franchise stands for. He's not just a star—he’s a symbol of the Qalandars' revival.
2. Fakhar Zaman
If Shaheen leads with the ball, Fakhar Zaman is the powerhouse with the bat. An explosive opener capable of taking the game away from any opponent within the first six overs, Fakhar has been a mainstay at the top of the order for years. His aggressive approach, coupled with his ability to play big innings under pressure, has earned him a cult following among Lahore fans. He holds several batting records for the team and has consistently delivered, even when the team around him has faltered. Fakhar embodies the Qalandars’ never-back-down spirit.
3. Rashid Khan
Although not a local player, Rashid Khan has been embraced by Lahore fans as one of their own. Ever since he joined the team, he’s been a game-changer with the ball. His tight lines, quick arm action, and uncanny ability to pick up wickets in the middle overs have turned many games in Lahore’s favor. Rashid doesn’t just contain runs—he wins matches. Add to that his handy lower-order batting and electric fielding, and you have one of the most complete T20 cricketers in the world. His influence on the Qalandars’ recent success cannot be overstated.
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4. David Wiese
The South African all-rounder may not have been a big name when he first joined, but he has become a fan favorite through pure grit and game-winning performances. Time and again, Wiese has stepped up in crunch situations—whether it’s smashing quick runs at the death or taking vital wickets when the team needs them most. His calm demeanor under pressure has rescued Lahore on multiple occasions. Wiese is the kind of player every team dreams of having: reliable, versatile, and a true team player.
5. Haris Rauf
Another gem unearthed by the Qalandars' unique talent hunt program, Haris Rauf’s journey from tape-ball cricket to becoming an international star is the stuff of dreams. His raw pace and aggression make him a match-winner on his day. Haris brings energy, emotion, and edge to the bowling attack, and his presence has added depth to the Qalandars’ fast-bowling arsenal. His story is not just inspiring—it’s a testament to Lahore Qalandars’ commitment to nurturing and backing emerging talent.
Final Thoughts
Lahore Qalandars’ journey in the PSL has been a story of growth, resilience, and redemption. While many players have donned the green and red jersey over the years, these five have stood out not just for their performances but for the passion and commitment they brought to the team. They’ve turned heartbreak into hope, and in doing so, carved their names into the Qalandars’ rich and evolving legacy.
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