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The 27th match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 will see Peshawar Zalmi take on Karachi Kings at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Thursday, May 8, 2025 . Both teams are in the thick of the playoff race, but with contrasting form — Karachi Kings have hit a purple patch with back-to-back wins, while Peshawar Zalmi look to keep their hopes alive after a recent win over Multan Sultans. With history and current momentum favoring the Kings, this clash promises excitement as both sides battle for crucial points.
Match Details
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Match No. | 27 |
| Date & Time | May 8, 2025 |
| Venue | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium |
| Teams | Peshawar Zalmi vs Karachi Kings |
| Tournament | Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 |
| Live Broadcast | PTV Sports / Geo Super / Cricbuzz Live |
| Weather Forecast | Partly cloudy skies, 36°C, no rain interruption expected |
Team Previews
Peshawar Zalmi Preview
Peshawar Zalmi enter this must-win clash after snapping a losing streak with a convincing win over Multan Sultans. However, inconsistency remains a concern, especially in batting. Their top run-getter Mohammad Haris has impressed with 230 runs at a strike rate of 152.31, and Hussain Talat has provided stability in the middle order with 193 runs at an average of 38.60. Captain Babar Azam , though not in his usual rhythm, still offers class and composure.
Their bowling attack is led by Alzarri Joseph , who has taken 12 wickets this season, supported by Luke Wood and young pacer Ali Raza . The emergence of Ahmed Daniyal as a handy death bowler gives them depth. If Zalmi can get starts from their openers and maintain pressure through the middle overs, they can pose a challenge. But their lack of consistency and poor head-to-head record against Kings makes it an uphill task.
Karachi Kings Preview
Karachi Kings are one of the in-form teams in the tournament, having won three of their last four matches. They sit comfortably in the top half of the table and are looking to solidify their playoff berth. James Vince continues to be their standout batter with 294 runs at a strike rate of 151.54, including a century and two fifties. Lower-order fireworks from Irfan Khan Niazi , who smashed a 21-ball 48 in the last game, make them dangerous in chases.
In bowling, Abbas Afridi has been the spearhead with 15 wickets at an economy of 9.33, while Hasan Ali and Mir Hamza provide pace and control. The all-round contributions from Mohammad Nabi add balance to the side. With a settled lineup, better team synergy, and confidence high, Karachi looks like strong contenders to take another step closer to the playoffs with a win here.
Favourite Team to Win Today’s Match
| Team | Why? |
|---|---|
| Karachi Kings | Karachi enters this match with better form, a more balanced lineup, and superior recent performances. Their batting is in great touch, and their bowling has enough firepower to trouble any opposition. While Peshawar can’t be ruled out, the Kings look more likely to come away with the win. |
Fantasy Team XI
| Player | Role | Team |
|---|---|---|
| James Vince | Batter | KRK |
| Mohammad Haris | Batter | PSZ |
| Babar Azam | Batter | PSZ |
| Irfan Khan Niazi | Batter | KRK |
| Hussain Talat | Batter | PSZ |
| Abbas Afridi | Bowler | KRK |
| Alzarri Joseph | Bowler | PSZ |
| Hasan Ali | Bowler | KRK |
| Luke Wood | Bowler | PSZ |
| Ahmed Daniyal | Bowler | PSZ |
| Mir Hamza | Bowler | KRK |
Explanation:
This fantasy XI includes key batters in form like James Vince and Irfan Khan Niazi , along with consistent bowlers such as Abbas Afridi and Alzarri Joseph . Focus is on players delivering impact with either bat or ball under pressure. Spin options are limited due to the pitch nature, so pacers dominate the selection.
Captain & Vice-Captain Suggestions
| Role | Player | Team | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| Captain | James Vince | Karachi Kings | Leading run-scorer, in red-hot form, reliable opening batter |
| Vice-Captain | Abbas Afridi | Karachi Kings | Top wicket-taker; capable of changing the game with the ball |
Players to Avoid in Fantasy Teams
| Player | Team | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Saad Baig | Karachi Kings | Inconsistent returns and low impact recently |
| Max Bryant | Peshawar Zalmi | Struggling with form; hasn’t delivered consistently |
Squad Lists
Peshawar Zalmi Squad (Full List):
Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Haris (wk), Saim Ayub, Max Bryant, Mitchell Owen, Shahid Afridi Jr., Shoaib Malik, Tim David, Kamran Ghulam, Alzarri Joseph, Luke Wood, Ali Raza, Akeal Hosein, Ahmed Daniyal, Maaz Sadaqat
Karachi Kings Squad (Full List):
David Warner (c), Tim Seifert (wk), James Vince, Irfan Khan Niazi, Khushdil Shah, Saad Baig, Mohammad Nabi, Hasan Ali, Aamer Jamal, Mir Hamza, Abbas Afridi, Tymal Mills, Imad Wasim, Umaid Asif, Sharjeel Khan
Probable Playing XI
Peshawar Zalmi (PPI):
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Babar Azam (c) | Opener |
| Mohammad Haris (wk) | Wicket-Keeper / Opener |
| Saim Ayub | Batter |
| Hussain Talat | Batter |
| Alzarri Joseph | All-Rounder |
| Luke Wood | Bowler |
| Ali Raza | Bowler |
| Ahmed Daniyal | Bowler |
| Maaz Sadaqat | Bowler |
| Shahid Afridi Jr. | Batter |
| Mitchell Owen | Batter |
Karachi Kings (PPI):
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| David Warner (c) | Opener |
| James Vince | Opener |
| Tim Seifert (wk) | Wicket-Keeper |
| Irfan Khan Niazi | Batter |
| Khushdil Shah | Batter |
| Mohammad Nabi | All-Rounder |
| Hasan Ali | Bowler |
| Abbas Afridi | Bowler |
| Mir Hamza | Bowler |
| Aamer Jamal | Bowler |
| Saad Baig | Batter |
Pitch Report – Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
The Rawalpindi pitch has remained high-scoring throughout PSL 2025, offering good pace and bounce with minimal turn for spinners. Batsmen have dominated, and the average first-innings score is around 200 . Pacers have found early help with the new ball, but scoring remains easy once set. Dew isn’t a major factor , so batting first gives a slight advantage , which most captains prefer here.
Toss Prediction
Prediction: Karachi Kings to win the toss
Decision: Likely to bat first , aiming to post a big total and put pressure on Zalmi.
Winner Prediction
With better team balance, form, and a stronger batting unit, Karachi Kings appear to have the upper hand. While Peshawar Zalmi are capable of pulling off upsets, especially with their improved bowling, the odds are stacked in favor of the Kings. A win here would all but seal their playoff spot.
Predicted Winner: Karachi Kings
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