Lahore Qalandars will face Islamabad United in the 19th game of the ongoing season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) on 30th April at Gaddafi Stadium.
Match Preview:
The stuttering Lahore Qalandars will take on high-flying Islamabad United who are yet to lose a game in this ongoing season of the PSL. Qalandars after losing two back-to-back games were back on winning ways when they faced Multan Sultans in their latest outing. It was such a crucial victory for the Qalandars and will help them to keep on the momentum while facing red-hot United.
Sikandar Raza has been on fleek for Qalandars as the Zimababian scored 40 off 21 in the last game for Qalandars making sure his team crossed the finishing line. Daryl Mitchell who was struggling to get going found his groove back and played the match-winning knock for Qalandars.
Although Qalandars would be in good confidence moving towards their next game, however, they have some concerns to answer in the name of Haris Rauf who is yet to perform in this ongoing six-team competition. Qalandars would be hoping he regains his form as the upcoming fixture is crucial in terms of qualification scenarios.
Talking about Islamabad, they sit comfortably at the top position and their place is almost confirmed for the play-offs. They are yet to lose a game and have assembled a balanced squad. Jason Holder has been the mainstay of the team who has been delivering key performances both with bat and bowl.
The form of Shadab Khan especially in bowling has been a gleeful sight for the United as well. So, as of now, United will be in high-flying confidence facing Qalandars at their home.
Probable Playing XI:
Lahore Qalandars: Fakhar Zaman, Abdullah Shafique, Daryl Mitchell, Sikandar Raza, Asif Ali, Sam Billings (WK), Shaheen Afridi ©, Rishad Hossain, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Azab (E)
Islamabad United: Sahibzada Farhan, Azam Khan (wk), Colin Munro, Haider Ali, Shadab Khan (c), Mohammad Nawaz, Jason Holder, Muhammad Shahzad, Imad Wasim, Ben Dwarshuis, Naseem Shah
Pitch and weather report:
Gaddafi Stadium’s pitch is reputed to be mostly batting-friendly, with true bounce giving the batters enough to judge the ball. Average first-innings scores go around 184 but recently the games have been tight and close at the Gaddafi.
Even in the recent game between Multan and Quetta saw the Sultans getting bundled out for just 89 runs in 17 overs. So, an interesting match can be expected.
Talking about the weather, there is no prediction of rain and the weather will remain clear throughout.
Head-to-head record:
Out of 20 encounters, Islamabad United holds a narrow edge with 11 wins, while Lahore Qalandars have triumphed in 9.
Prediction:
Given how Islamabad has been performing , they are clear favourites to win the upcoming game of the season.
Where to Watch:
Pakistan (TV): A Sports HD, PTV Sports
Pakistan (Live Streaming): tapmad, Tamasha, Daraz, myco, begin
UK: Sky Sports, Geo News (Sky 734)
North America: Willow
Africa: SuperSport
MENA Region: myco
Bangladesh: T Sports
India: Sports Central (YouTube)
Rest of the World: Sports Central (YouTube)
