Defending champion Lahore beats Hyderabad behind closed doors in opening game of PSL

Lahore Qalandars opened their Pakistan Super League title defense with a commanding 69-run victory over debutants Hyderabad Kingsmen, but the triumph unfolded in eerie silence at Gaddafi Stadium as fans were kept away by soaring fuel prices linked to the Iran war. The fixture, meant to kick off the nation’s biggest annual sporting spectacle, instead highlighted the economic strain gripping the country, with roads leading to the usually raucous arena largely deserted. In the absence of any crowd support, Lahore’s players still found rhythm early, posting a total that proved beyond Hyderabad’s reach before skittling the first-time franchise for a modest reply. The win gives the reigning champions an early lead on the standings, yet the hollow atmosphere served as a stark reminder that even marquee cricket is not immune to the ripple effects of regional conflict and inflationary pressure.