In one of the most surprising narratives of PSL Season 10, Lahore Qalandars have reached the final without their head coach, Russell Domingo, at the helm. This remarkable achievement came to light following the team’s impressive win over Islamabad United.

Speaking after the match, Sameen Rana, the franchise’s COO and Director, confirmed Domingo’s absence since the league resumed post-break.

“Russell Domingo has not been with us in the second half of the PSL. We’re essentially without a coach,” Rana stated.

On-Field Leadership Takes Center Stage

While coaching structures typically guide teams through critical phases, Lahore’s senior players have taken matters into their own hands. Shaheen Afridi has led by example both as captain and motivator, managing bowling rotations and field settings with poise.

Veterans like Fakhar Zaman and Sikandar Raza have reportedly been instrumental in team meetings and game-day strategies. It’s a shift that challenges traditional norms in franchise cricket, where structured coaching is often considered non-negotiable.

Lahore’s Winning Formula Without Domingo

Since the departure of Domingo, the Qalandars have remained unbeaten in knockout games, defeating major rivals and showing tactical discipline. This has sparked debate around how much influence a coach holds during matches, especially when experienced players are present.

The decision-making, match awareness, and role clarity displayed by the Qalandars suggest a maturity that goes beyond reliance on a single strategist.

Questions Loom Over Future Coaching Direction

As the team heads into the final against Quetta Gladiators, the franchise faces big questions. Will they retain Domingo for future seasons? Or has the team’s performance in his absence made a stronger case for a new coaching model altogether?

While the answers remain pending, one thing is certain—Lahore Qalandars have defied expectations and redefined what it means to be a resilient cricket team under pressure.