United aim to maintain perfect record against Qalandars

LAHORE: As the Pakistan Super League 2025 continues to engage fans with electrifying encounter, another exciting clash awaits for them when Lahore Qalandars host the unbeaten Islamabad United at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Wednesday (today).

Lahore Qalandars having involved in six outings, experienced a mixed season so far with three wins and three losses. They enter this contest on the back of a confidence-boosting five-wicket victory over Multan Sultans, successfully chasing down 186 with an over to spare. Key contributions from international stars Daryl Mitchell and Sikandar Raza were instrumental in their recent triumph, suggesting their batting lineup is finding form at a crucial stage of the tournament.

Undefeated Islamabad United, the league leaders have been in imperious form, winning all five consecutive victories. Their most recent success also came against Multan Sultans, where they comfortably chased down 169 in just 17.1 overs with USA international Andries Gous smashing an unbeaten 80. Their well-balanced squad has performed consistently across all departments, making them the team to beat this season.

A hot day awaits with temperatures expected to reach 34°C (93.2°F) under clear skies. The Gaddafi Stadium pitch traditionally favors batsmen and has a reputation for producing high-scoring encounters, setting the stage for an exciting battle between two powerful batting lineups.

The day’s game is not only among two recognized teams but also matchup between some key player. It’s a match between Fakhar Zaman vs. Naseem Shah: Lahore’s explosive opener Fakhar Zaman will face the raw pace and swing of Naseem Shah in what promises to be a thrilling contest with the new ball.

Daryl Mitchell vs. Shadab Khan: The middle-overs battle between Mitchell’s solid technique and Shadab’s crafty leg-spin could prove decisive. Colin Munro vs. Shaheen Shah Afridi: Munro’s aggressive intent against Shaheen’s deadly left-arm pace will set the tone early in the Islamabad innings.

Azam Khan vs. Haris Rauf: The big-hitting Azam Khan against the express pace of Haris Rauf is one of the most anticipated matchups of the game. Sam Billings vs. Ben Dwarshius: In the death overs, Billings’ innovative stroke play against Dwarshius’ left-arm variations could swing the momentum.

Islamabad United holds a slight edge in the overall head-to-head record with 10 wins to Lahore’s 9 in their 19 PSL encounters. Their recent meetings have produced some memorable contests.

However, Lahore Qalandars, riding on the momentum of their recent are likely to field an unchanged XI. Their batting looks settled with the form of Fakhar Zaman, Daryl Mitchell, and Sikandar Raza, while their bowling attack led by Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf remains formidable.

Islamabad United with five straight wins, have no reason to tinker with their winning combination. Their balanced lineup featuring strong international and local talent has performed consistently throughout the tournament.

Despite Lahore’s home advantage and recent return to winning ways, Islamabad’s perfect record and well-balanced squad give them a slight edge. According to statistical analysis, Islamabad United are favored to win (52% probability), though Lahore are predicted to win the toss (58% probability).

The high-scoring nature of the Gaddafi Stadium, combined with the batting firepower on both sides, promises a thrilling contest that could go down to the wire. However, Islamabad’s superior form and balance across departments should help them maintain their perfect record.