Lahore Qalandars on Sunday broke the T20 record for the highest successful run chase ever recorded by chasing a 202-run target against the Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) final, played at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
Batting second under lights at the Gaddafi Stadium, the Qalandars got to 204 for 4 in 19.5 overs, having an incredible run rate of 10.28 runs per over. Their pursuit was led by a level-headed and elegant 62 by MDKJ Perera*, with able support from the likes of Sikandar Raza, who remained not out on 22. Qalandars’ top-order provided a fine platform before their middle order came in with a measured attack on the Quetta bowling line-up, which could not stay in control. Faheem Ashraf was the most costly, having conceded 49 runs off his 4 overs.
Kolkata Knight Riders held the record before Lahore Qalandars broke it.
Second on the all-time list is a legendary chase by the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) during the Indian Premier League on June 1, 2014, in Bengaluru. Facing Kings XI Punjab, KKR were tasked with matching a massive 200-run target. In a tense and thrilling contest, they held their nerve and reached 200 for 7 in 19.3 overs. That performance was powered by a fearless innings from the middle order and sharp finishers who capitalized on the powerplay and death overs alike. At the time, it stood as a modern marvel and remained the pinnacle of T20 chasing until Qalandars’ heroics this year.
Taking the third spot is Barishal’s remarkable chase of 195 against Chittagong in the Bangladesh Premier League on February 7, 2025, at Mirpur. Barishal ended with 195 for 7 in 19.3 overs, showcasing a mix of controlled aggression and lower-order grit. Though not as flashy as the top two, this chase was equally vital in demonstrating that high-pressure targets in excess of 190 are no longer unthinkable feats.
