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The Pakistan Super League 2025 continues to thrill fans as Islamabad United, the reigning champions, prepare to take on Multan Sultans in Match 7 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Islamabad has started their campaign with two dominant victories, including a massive 102-run win over Peshawar Zalmi, and will look to maintain their momentum. On the other hand, Multan Sultans are still searching for their first win after losing their opening game against Karachi Kings. The contest promises fireworks, given Rawalpindi’s reputation as a batting paradise. With Islamabad holding an edge over Multan in recent encounters, including last season’s thrilling final, fans can expect another high-scoring clash.
Match Details
| Match | Islamabad United vs Multan Sultans |
|---|---|
| Date | 16 April 2025 |
| Venue | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium |
| Time | 8:30 PM |
| Format | T20 |
Team Previews
Islamabad United Preview:
Islamabad United have made a sensational start to their title defense, winning both matches convincingly. Their batting lineup looks unstoppable, with Sahibzada Farhan leading the charge after smashing 106 off 52 balls against Peshawar Zalmi. Colin Munro and Salman Agha have also been in excellent form, providing stability and firepower in the middle order. Lower down, Azam Khan and Shadab Khan add depth with their ability to accelerate in the death overs.
With the ball, Islamabad’s attack is versatile and effective. Naseem Shah and Ben Dwarshuis provide early breakthroughs, while Imad Wasim and Jason Holder excel in the middle overs. Their combined 10 wickets in two games highlight their dominance. Islamabad’s balance between bat and ball makes them formidable opponents, especially on a batting-friendly Rawalpindi pitch. They will aim to exploit Multan’s fragile bowling attack and secure another commanding victory.
Multan Sultans Preview:
Multan Sultans had a tough start, failing to defend 234 against Karachi Kings. While Mohammad Rizwan’s unbeaten 105 and Michael Bracewell’s explosive cameo showcased their batting potential, their bowlers struggled to contain Karachi’s chase. David Willey and Bracewell were expensive, conceding 84 runs in six overs combined. Only Akif Javed and Usama Mir provided some resistance, picking up four wickets between them.
Multan’s middle order, featuring Kamran Ghulam and Iftikhar Ahmed, offers depth but lacks consistency. Their bowling remains a concern, with only Chris Jordan appearing reliable. To challenge Islamabad, they’ll need Rizwan and Bracewell to replicate their performances and hope their bowlers rise to the occasion. However, against a strong Islamabad side, Multan face an uphill battle.
Favorite Team to Win Today’s Match
| Team | Reasons |
|---|---|
| Islamabad United | Islamabad’s strong start, coupled with their balanced team and home advantage, gives them the edge. Their batsmen are in top form, and their bowlers have consistently delivered. Multan’s inconsistent bowling and lack of depth make them vulnerable. Given Islamabad’s dominance in recent encounters and Multan’s struggles, Islamabad are clear favorites to win this match. |
Fantasy Team XI
| Player | Role | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Mohammad Rizwan (c) | Wicketkeeper | Multan Sultans |
| Sahibzada Farhan | Batsman | Islamabad United |
| Colin Munro | Batsman | Islamabad United |
| Salman Agha | Batsman | Islamabad United |
| Michael Bracewell | All-Rounder | Multan Sultans |
| Shadab Khan | All-Rounder | Islamabad United |
| Kamran Ghulam | All-Rounder | Multan Sultans |
| Jason Holder | Bowler | Islamabad United |
| Chris Jordan | Bowler | Multan Sultans |
| Naseem Shah | Bowler | Islamabad United |
| Akif Javed | Bowler | Multan Sultans |
Explanation: This fantasy team combines the best performers from both sides. Mohammad Rizwan and Sahibzada Farhan are must-haves due to their recent form. Colin Munro and Salman Agha add stability, while Michael Bracewell and Shadab Khan offer all-round contributions. Jason Holder, Chris Jordan, and Naseem Shah provide wicket-taking options, ensuring a balanced squad.
Captain and Vice-Captain Suggestions
- Captain: Sahibzada Farhan (In red-hot form with a century in the last game)
- Vice-Captain: Mohammad Rizwan (Consistent performer and captain of Multan Sultans)
Players to Avoid in Fantasy Team
- David Willey (Expensive in the previous game)
- Usama Mir (Lacks consistency despite occasional wickets)
Team Squads and Probable Playing XI
Islamabad United Squad:
Andries Gous, Sahibzada Farhan, Colin Munro, Salman Agha, Azam Khan (wk), Shadab Khan (c), Jason Holder, Imad Wasim, Naseem Shah, Saad Masood, Ben Dwarshuis
Multan Sultans Squad:
Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Shai Hope, Usman Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Kamran Ghulam, Michael Bracewell, Shahid Aziz, David Willey, Chris Jordan, Usama Mir, Akif Javed
| Islamabad United XI | Multan Sultans XI |
|---|---|
| Andries Gous | Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk) |
| Sahibzada Farhan | Shai Hope |
| Colin Munro | Usman Khan |
| Salman Agha | Iftikhar Ahmed |
| Azam Khan (wk) | Kamran Ghulam |
| Shadab Khan (c) | Michael Bracewell |
| Jason Holder | Shahid Aziz |
| Imad Wasim | David Willey |
| Naseem Shah | Chris Jordan |
| Saad Masood | Usama Mir |
| Ben Dwarshuis | Akif Javed |
Pitch Report
Rawalpindi’s pitch is a batting paradise, offering high-scoring opportunities. Fast bowlers may find some initial movement, but batting becomes easier as the game progresses. Expect dew to play a role in the second innings, aiding batters further. Teams batting first should aim for a score of 210-220.
Toss Prediction
The toss winner is likely to bat first, given the high-scoring nature of the venue and the advantage of setting a target.
Winner Prediction
Islamabad United are predicted to win due to their superior form, balanced team, and favorable conditions.
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