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The second round of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 is set to witness an exciting clash between Islamabad United and Peshawar Zalmi at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Islamabad United, fresh off a commanding win against Lahore Qalandars, will look to consolidate their position on the points table. On the other hand, Peshawar Zalmi, reeling from a heavy defeat against Quetta Gladiators, will be desperate to bounce back and secure their first points of the season. With both teams boasting strong lineups, this match promises to be a thrilling contest.
Match Details
| Match | Islamabad United vs Peshawar Zalmi |
|---|---|
| Date | April 14, 2025 |
| Venue | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium |
| Time | 7:30 PM PKT |
| Format | T20 |
| Umpires | Aleem Dar, Ahsan Raza |
| Weather | Clear skies, temperature around 28°C |
Team Previews
Islamabad United Preview
Islamabad United started their campaign with a clinical performance against Lahore Qalandars, winning by 8 wickets. Their bowling attack, led by Jason Holder (4 wickets), restricted Lahore to a modest total, while Colin Munro’s unbeaten 59* guided them home comfortably. Shadab Khan’s team has depth in both batting and bowling, making them formidable opponents. The top order, comprising Sahibzada Farhan and Andries Gous, provides stability, while Munro and Azam Khan add firepower in the middle order.
In the bowling department, Naseem Shah and Riley Meredith impressed with their pace and accuracy, while Imad Wasim and Shadab Khan offer spin options. Islamabad United will rely on their all-round strength to dominate Peshawar Zalmi.
Peshawar Zalmi Preview
Peshawar Zalmi endured a disappointing start to their campaign, losing by 80 runs to Quetta Gladiators. Their bowlers struggled to contain the opposition, while their batters failed to chase down the target. Babar Azam, their captain, had a quiet outing and will need to lead from the front. Saim Ayub showed promise with a half-century, but contributions from Tom Kohler-Cadmore and Mohammad Haris were lacking.
The bowling unit, spearheaded by Alzarri Joseph, needs improvement after being taken apart in the last game. Hussain Talat and Ali Raza must step up in the middle overs. Peshawar Zalmi faces an uphill task against a confident Islamabad United side and must deliver a complete performance to stand a chance.
Favourite Team to Win Today’s Match
| Team | Reasons for Winning |
|---|---|
| Islamabad United | Strong batting lineup, experienced bowlers, and momentum from the previous win make them favorites. |
Islamabad United’s comprehensive victory in the last game showcased their dominance. With players like Colin Munro and Jason Holder in form, they have the edge over Peshawar Zalmi, who are yet to find rhythm.
Fantasy Team XI
| Role | Player Name |
|---|---|
| WK | Azam Khan (ISU) |
| BAT | Colin Munro (ISU) |
| BAT | Saim Ayub (PSZ) |
| BAT | Tom Kohler-Cadmore (PSZ) |
| ALL | Shadab Khan (ISU) |
| ALL | Jason Holder (ISU) |
| BOWL | Naseem Shah (ISU) |
| BOWL | Alzarri Joseph (PSZ) |
| BOWL | Imad Wasim (ISU) |
| BOWL | Riley Meredith (ISU) |
| BOWL | Ali Raza (PSZ) |
Explanation: This fantasy team balances both bat and ball, featuring key performers from both sides. Colin Munro and Azam Khan are reliable picks for their batting prowess, while Shadab Khan and Jason Holder provide all-round value. Naseem Shah and Alzarri Joseph are wicket-taking options.
Captain & Vice-Captain Suggestions
- Captain: Colin Munro (ISU) – In-form batsman capable of scoring big runs.
- Vice-Captain: Shadab Khan (ISU) – All-rounder who contributes with bat and ball.
Players to Avoid
- Babar Azam (PSZ): Struggled in the last game and may not perform consistently.
- Mohammad Haris (PSZ): Failed to deliver in the opening match.
Probable Playing XIs
| Islamabad United | Peshawar Zalmi |
|---|---|
| Shadab Khan (c) | Babar Azam (c) |
| Andries Gous | Saim Ayub |
| Sahibzada Farhan | Mohammad Haris (wk) |
| Colin Munro | Tom Kohler-Cadmore |
| Salman Agha | Hussain Talat |
| Azam Khan (wk) | Max Bryant |
| Jason Holder | Mitchell Owen |
| Imad Wasim | Alzarri Joseph |
| Muhammad Shahzad | Sufiyan Muqeem |
| Naseem Shah | Mohammad Ali |
| Riley Meredith | Ali Raza |
Pitch Report
The Rawalpindi pitch is known for being batting-friendly, with minimal assistance for bowlers. Expect high scores, with the average first-innings total around 160-180 runs.
Toss Prediction
Bowling first is likely, as chasing has been advantageous at this venue.
Winner Prediction
Islamabad United are favorites to win due to their superior form and balanced team composition.
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