In the 22nd game of the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) season X, Peshawar Zalmi (PZ) will take on table-toppers Islamabad United (IU) at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on May 2, 2025.
Match Preview:
Islamabad United have picked up right where they left off last season, playing like true champions so far in PSL X. Although they suffered a heavy defeat in their last match against the Qalandars, they remain firmly at the top of the table, having won five out of their six games. A win against Peshawar Zalmi would not only secure their place in the playoffs but also strengthen their bid to finish in the top two at the end of the group stage. On the other hand, Peshawar Zalmi, reeling from a heavy defeat, will be eager to bounce back and reignite their campaign with a much-needed victory. With only four matches remaining, they have to win at least three, if not all, to keep their playoff hopes alive.
For Peshawar Zalmi, much depends on their captain and star batter, Babar Azam. He has yet to find his full rhythm this season, delivering only in patches. While he scored a crucial fifty against the Qalandars to help his side chase down a tricky target, he failed to make an impact in the last game. With just 117 runs in six matches—a return well below his usual standards—Zalmi will need Babar to step up and deliver a commanding performance, especially against a top side like Islamabad United.
Another key player is the explosive left-hander Saim Ayub, who is gradually regaining form after returning from injury. His aggressive approach during the powerplay could be vital in laying a solid foundation for Zalmi’s innings. A silver lining from Peshawar’s previous clash with Islamabad United was the performance of Mohammad Haris, whose lively knock brought some much-needed spark to the top order. Zalmi will be hoping Haris can replicate that effort and provide early momentum once again.
Another positive sign for Zalmi is that their bowling unit has started to find its rhythm, delivering impressive performances in two of their last three games.
For Islamabad United, aside from one off-day, everything seems to be falling into place. Their batters have consistently delivered impactful performances, and the bowlers have provided solid support. Opener Sahibzada Farhan is enjoying the form of his life, playing a pivotal role at the top of the order. In the bowling department, the contributions of Shadab Khan and Imad Wasim have been crucial, offering balance and control across both bowl and bat. Additionally, Jason Holder has made key contributions with the new ball, especially during the powerplay. United will likely view their last defeat as an anomaly and will be eager to return to the dominant form they’ve shown since last season.
Peshawar Zalmi’s biggest concern remains their inconsistent batting, which has significantly hindered their campaign. Key top-order players like Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Babar Azam, and Saim Ayub have struggled to produce substantial performances, leaving the team vulnerable. This weakness was exposed the last time these two sides met during the Rawalpindi leg in the fifth match of the season. Zalmi were bundled out for just 141 runs, with Mohammad Haris scoring a brilliant 87, while the rest of the batting lineup could only muster 54 runs collectively.
Probable Playing XI:
Peshawar Zalmi:
T Kohler-Cadmore, Mohammad Haris (wk), Babar Azam (C), Max Bryant, Saim Ayub, Hussain Talat, Alzarri Joseph, Mohammad Ali, Sufyan Moqim, Ali Raza, Mitchell Owen
Islamabad United:
Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Agha, Azam Khan (WK), Haider Ali, Andries Gous, Jason Holder, Imad Wasim, Ben Dwarshuis, Shadab Khan (C), Naseem Shah, Hunain Shah
Pitch and weather report:
The pitch at Gaddafi Stadium this PSL season has been competitive and supportive for both batters and bowlers. The surface favors fast bowlers early on, with most of the pitches covered with healthy grass. The new ball offers good seam movement, helping pacers pick up early wickets. However, after the powerplay, once the ball softens, it comes onto the bat more nicely. Batting becomes easier as the innings progress, especially in the first innings. The team batting first has won three out of five matches in this year’s PSL season.
As for the weather, Friday is expected to be cooler with partly cloudy skies following last night’s rain. Conditions during the match are likely to be clear and suitable for cricket, as the sun is expected to emerge as the day progresses. The night will remain dry, with temperatures hovering around a comfortable 25°C.
Head-to-head record:
In their head-to-head encounters in the Pakistan Super League, both teams have been evenly matched, with each winning 12 out of the 24 matches they’ve played so far.
Prediction:
Islamabad United have been the team to beat this season. Although they suffered a heavy defeat against the Qalandars at this venue in their last match, their overall form makes them the favorites against a struggling Peshawar Zalmi side that has yet to find its rhythm in both the batting and bowling departments.
Where to Watch:
Pakistan (TV): A Sports HD, PTV Sports
Pakistan (Live Streaming): tapmad, Tamasha, Daraz, myco, bogn
UK: Sky Sports, Geo News (Sky 734)
North America: Willow
Africa: SuperSport
MENA Region: myco
Bangladesh: T Sports
India (Linear TV): Sony Sports Network
India (Digital): FanCode
Sri Lanka & Afghanistan: Sony Sports Network
Rest of the World: Sports Central
