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Tag: Mohammad Rizwan

  • Hyderabad Kingsmen vs Multan Sultans – PSL 2026 Match Analysis | T20 Cricket Analysis & Prediction April 22 | Win Prediction | Score Prediction | Top Batter | Top Bowler | AI Cricket Prediction

    Hyderabad Kingsmen vs Multan Sultans – PSL 2026 Match Analysis | T20 Cricket Analysis & Prediction April 22 | Win Prediction | Score Prediction | Top Batter | Top Bowler | AI Cricket Prediction

    This preview blends probability modelling, form indicators, and situational analysis to deliver a clear PSL 2026 match prediction.

    • Match: Hyderabad Kingsmen vs Multan Sultans
    • Tournament: PSL 2026
    • Format: Men’s T20

    Win Probability – Scenario-Based Outlook

    Scenario Hyderabad Kingsmen Multan Sultans 
    Hyderabad Kingsmen bat first41%59%
    Multan Sultans bat first50%50%

    In both of the scenarios, Multan Sultans have higher chances of winning. 

    Expected First Innings Score

    Metric Projection 
    Par score range 150-174 runs 

    The pitch looks decent for batting, especially under lights. Teams batting first should aim for at least 150+ to feel safe. Anything below that could be risky.

    Expected First Innings Wickets

    MetricPrediction 
    Likely wicket 6-9 wicket 

    The expected range of first innings wickets in the match is approximately 6 to 9 wickets. 

    Top Batters to Watch (30+ Runs Probability)

    Player Team Chance
    Muhammad Awais ZafarMS

    		100%

    Maaz Sadaqat    		HK42.10%


    Steven Smith

    		MS
    		41.88%


    Batting Insights 

    Muhammad Awais Zafar (Multan Sultans)

    ​The rising star has become a reliable top-order presence for Multan this season. He recently played a crucial knock of 36 off 27 balls against Karachi, showcasing his ability to hold an end while maintaining a strike rate above 130.

    Zafar’s primary role is to provide stability during the middle overs, a task he has handled with maturity. His partnership-building skills—highlighted by a recent 50-run stand off just 23 balls with Josh Philippe—make him a vital link between the explosive openers and the finishing power of the lower order.

    ​Maaz Sadaqat (Hyderabad Kingsmen)

    ​Sadaqat is arguably the find of the tournament for the Kingsmen. A left-handed dynamic batter, he recently dismantled the Multan bowling attack with a blistering 50 off just 19 balls, including five massive sixes.In his last meeting against this very opponent, he scored a rapid 62 off 26 deliveries, striking at a phenomenal 238.46. As a clean hitter who dominates the powerplay, Sadaqat’s “no mercy” approach makes him the biggest threat to Multan’s new-ball bowlers. Hyderabad will look to him to set a high-octane tone early in the innings.

    Maaz Sadaqat plays a shot during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) match between Hyderabad Kingsmen and Multan Sultans at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan, on April 1, 2026 © Getty Images

    ​Steven Smith (Multan Sultans)

    ​Bringing veteran experience and world-class technique to the Sultans’ lineup, Smith has been an anchor in their quest for a top-two finish. Despite a rare duck in his most recent outing, he remains one of the team’s most consistent performers with 175 runs so far this season.Earlier this month, he gave Multan a flyer against Hyderabad with 46 off 20 balls, proving that he can shift gears effortlessly.

    Top Bowlers – Likely Impact (2+ Wickets)

    Player Team Chance
    Asif Mehmood

    		Hyderabad Kingsmen50%

    Muhammad Ismail MS50%


    Mohammad Ali





    		Hyderabad Kingsmen45.83%

    Bowling Insights 

    Asif Mehmood (Hyderabad Kingsmen)

    The 30-year-old speedster has been the breakout story of the 2026 season. After a four-year hiatus from professional cricket, he made a historic PSL debut on April 12 against Islamabad United, where he stunned the league by taking 4 wickets in a single over.

    He currently boasts an incredible strike rate, having already claimed multiple wickets in short bursts. While he can be expensive—conceding 15 runs in his opening over on debut—his ability to clean up the tail and break partnerships in the death overs makes him Hyderabad’s primary “X-factor” bowler. Watch for him to be deployed as the 6th bowler once the powerplay concludes.

    ​Muhammad Ismail (Multan Sultans)

    ​Ismail has established himself as a reliable tactical asset in the Sultans’ bowling rotation this season. Operating primarily in the middle overs, his role has been to squeeze the opposition and build pressure for the strike bowlers.

    While he may not always grab the headlines like the express pacers, his discipline was key in Multan’s previous victory over Hyderabad on April 1st, where he helped restrict the Kingsmen’s middle-order surge. In a high-scoring season where targets of 220+ are becoming common, Ismail’s ability to maintain an economy rate under 9.00 has been vital for Multan holding the top spot in the standings.

    Muhammad Ismail celebrates a wicket of Yasir Khan during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) match between Rawalpindi and Multan Sultans at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan, on April 6, 2026 © Getty Images

    Mohammad Ali (Hyderabad Kingsmen)

    ​Originally a standout for Multan in previous years, Ali is now a cornerstone of the Hyderabad Kingsmen’s pace attack. He enters the April 22nd match in excellent form, having recently picked up 9 wickets in 6 matches this season.

    His most impressive performance came against the Rawalpindiz on April 16, where he bagged 3/21 with a stifling economy of 5.25. Ali is currently averaging 18.53 in domestic T20s this year, showing remarkable consistency with his line and length. Facing his former side, Multan Sultans, he will be the leader of the pack, tasked with neutralizing heavy hitters like Sahibzada Farhan during the powerplay.

    Multan Sultans: The Clinical Contenders

    ​The Sultans have dominated the season by sticking to a balanced core while integrating experienced international stars who have hit form at the perfect time.

    ​Top Order & Leadership: Captained by Ashton Turner, the batting is anchored by the prolific Sahibzada Farhan, who recently notched a brilliant century. He is paired with the legendary Steve Smith, who provides stability and elite strike rotation at the top.

    ​Finishing Power: The middle order boasts the explosive Josh Philippe and the versatile Arafat Minhas, both of whom can accelerate the scoring rate in the death overs to post or chase daunting totals.

    ​Bowling Strength: The pace attack is led by the experienced Peter Siddle and the reliable Mohammad Wasim Jr. For spin, they rely on the clever variations of Mohammad Nawaz and the rising talent Faisal Akram.

    ​Hyderabad Kingsmen: The Rising Force

    ​After a slow start, the Kingsmen have found their rhythm by banking on a mix of world-class all-rounders and young local talent.

    ​Top Order & Leadership: Led by Marnus Labuschagne, the batting unit relies on the flair of Saim Ayub and the raw power of Maaz Sadaqat, who has been providing explosive starts in the powerplay.

    ​Finishing Power: The legendary Glenn Maxwell provides the finishing touch with his 360-degree hitting, supported by Usman Khan and Irfan Khan, making them a dangerous unit in the final overs.

    ​Bowling Strength: The bowling has been revolutionized by debutant sensation Asif Mehmood, who recently took a 4-wicket haul. He is supported by the pace of Riley Meredith and the spin of Hassan Khan and Maheesh Theekshana.

    ​Final Verdict

    ​While Multan Sultans are the favorites due to their clinical consistency and the peak form of Farhan and Smith, the Hyderabad Kingsmen have the momentum of recent wins. If Glenn Maxwell and Saim Ayub fire at the top, Karachi could witness a major upset tonight.

  • Lahore Qalandars vs Rawalpindi Pindiz – PSL 2026 Match Analysis | T20 Cricket Analysis & Prediction April 18 | Win Prediction | Score Prediction | Top Batter | Top Bowler | AI Cricket Prediction

    Lahore Qalandars vs Rawalpindi Pindiz – PSL 2026 Match Analysis | T20 Cricket Analysis & Prediction April 18 | Win Prediction | Score Prediction | Top Batter | Top Bowler | AI Cricket Prediction

    This preview blends probability modelling, form indicators, and situational analysis to deliver a clear PSL 2026 match prediction.

    • Match: Lahore Qalandars vs Rawalpindi Pindiz
    • Tournament: PSL 2026
    • Format: Men’s T20

    Win Probability – Scenario-Based Outlook

    Scenario Rawalpindi PindizLahore Qalandars 
    Quetta Gladiators bat first21%79%
    Lahore Qalandars bat first22%78%

    In both of the scenarios, Lahore Qalandars has higher chances of winning. 

    Expected First Innings Score

    Metric Projection 
    Par score range 150-152 runs 

    The pitch looks decent for batting. Teams batting first should aim for at least 150+ to feel safe. Anything below that could be risky.

    Expected First Innings Wickets

    MetricPrediction 
    Likely wicket 6-8 wicket 

    The expected range of first innings wickets in the match is approximately 6 to 8 wickets. 

    Top Batters to Watch (30+ Runs Probability)

    Player Team Chance
    Parvez Hossain EmonLahore Qalandars
    		41.67%


    Abdullah Shafique
    		Lahore Qalandars
    		41.67%
    Daryl Mitchell

    		Rawalpindi Pindiz41.38%

    Batting Insights 

    Parvez Hossain Emon (Lahore Qalandars)

    ​The young Bangladeshi southpaw has been a breath of fresh air for the Qalandars this season. Making his PSL debut, Emon has quickly adapted to Pakistani conditions, showing he can handle high-velocity pace with ease. In his three appearances so far, he has managed 71 runs at an average of 23.66.

    ​His standout performance was a brisk 44, where he displayed his range by striking at 161.36. While he is currently nursing a minor shoulder niggle (a ligament tear) that has put his immediate participation in doubt for today’s match, his impact at the top of the order remains a key talking point for the Lahore management. If cleared to play, expect him to target the straight boundaries early in the powerplay.

    ​Abdullah Shafique (Lahore Qalandars)

    ​Shafique continues to be the “technician” of the Qalandars’ lineup, providing stability amidst the power hitters. In the 2026 season, he has been remarkably consistent, maintaining a healthy average of 30.12 across his innings. While often labeled a traditionalist, his PSL strike rate of 138.13 this year proves he has added a gear to his T20 game.

    ​He entered this match on the back of a rare failure (a run-out for 4), but prior to that, he had a streak of four consecutive scores above 20. His role today will be to neutralize the new ball and set a platform, allowing the middle order to explode. Watch for his elite footwork against the spinners in the middle overs, where he rarely lets the run rate dip.

    ​Daryl Mitchell (Rawalpindiz)

    ​The Kiwi powerhouse has been the “X-factor” for the Rawalpindiz this season, proving why he was one of the most sought-after overseas picks in the auction. Mitchell has amassed 154 runs in his 6 matches, currently averaging 25.66. What makes him terrifying for bowlers is his ability to accelerate instantly; he is currently operating at a strike rate of 158.53.

    Daryl Mitchell plays a shot during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) match between Rawalpindi and Multan Sultans at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan, on April 6, 2026 © Getty Images

    ​His highlight of the season remains a brutal 65 off 41 balls against the Karachi Kings, an innings that included 3 massive sixes. Mitchell thrives in the “finisher” role (batting primarily at 4 or 5), and his ability to clear the long-on boundary at the National Stadium makes him the biggest threat to Lahore’s death-bowling plans.

    Top Bowlers – Likely Impact (2+ Wickets)

    Player Team Chance
    Ben Sears
    		Rawalpindi Pindiz43.18%


    Shaheen Afridi


    		Lahore Qalandars40.32%

    Haris Rauf
    		Lahore Qalandars

    		39.26%

    Bowling Insights 

    Ben Sears (RawalpindiZ)

    ​The Kiwi speedster has been a breath of fresh air for the Pindiz in a season plagued by injuries to their local stars. Sears is currently one of the few consistent sparks in their lineup, leveraging the raw pace that recently earned him a spot as a travelling reserve in New Zealand’s World Cup squad.

    ​Sears comes into this game with a solid run of form, having averaged 14.50 with an economy of 6.44 in his most recent international T20 stint. In the PSL 2026 season, he has been tasked with being the primary aggressor. Look for him to use his height and high-arm release to generate uncomfortable bounce on the Karachi surface, specifically targeting the Lahore openers during the powerplay.

    ​Shaheen Afridi (Lahore Qalandars)

    ​The Qalandars’ skipper remains the gold standard for left-arm pace in the league. As of mid-April 2026, Shaheen is once again near the top of the leaderboards, having already claimed 6 wickets in just three innings this season at an elite average of 13.00.

    ​His career PSL tally has now crossed 122 wickets, and his ability to strike in the first over remains his most lethal trait. With an economy rate hovering around 7.97 despite bowling the toughest overs, he is the ultimate hybrid of a wicket-taker and a container. Against Rawalpindi’s struggling middle order, Shaheen will likely look to wrap things up quickly with his trademark searing yorkers at the death.

    ​Haris Rauf (Lahore Qalandars)

    ​Known as “Mr. 150,” Rauf is the “enforcer” for Lahore. While he has had a mixed bag of results this season—ranging from a brilliant 2/22 against Hyderabad to a more expensive outing against Karachi—his impact remains undeniable. He recently completed a stellar Big Bash campaign where he took 20 wickets at an average of 16.75, proving he is in peak physical condition.

    Haris Rauf celebrates taking the wicket of Khushdil Shah during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) match between Lahore Qalandars and Karachi Kings at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan, on March 29, 2026 © Getty Images

    ​Rauf’s value lies in his middle-over “heavy” balls and his ability to reverse the old ball. His career T20 strike rate of 15.11 suggests that even if he goes for a few runs, a wicket is always just around the corner. Expect him to be the primary weapon against the RawalpindiZ batters who have shown a tendency to collapse under extreme pace.

    Lahore Qalandars: The Pace Powerhouse

    ​The Qalandars have maintained their identity by holding onto a world-class bowling core while bolstering their aggressive top-order options.

    ​Top Order & Leadership: Led by the fiery Shaheen Shah Afridi, the batting is anchored by the consistent Abdullah Shafique and the explosive Fakhar Zaman. They are complemented by Mohammad Naeem, who has already shown great form this season.

    ​Finishing Power: The versatile Sikandar Raza and the hard-hitting Asif Ali provide the necessary muscle at the death, capable of turning any game around in a few balls.

    ​Bowling Strength: Their pace attack is perhaps the best in the league, featuring Haris Rauf and Mustafizur Rahman alongside Shaheen. For spin, they rely on the crafty Usama Mir and West Indian Gudakesh Motie.

    ​Rawalpindiz: The Tactical Titans

    ​As the league’s newest and most expensive franchise, the ‘Pindiz’ have built a balanced squad centered around high-IQ tactical players.

    ​Top Order & Leadership: Captained by Mohammad Rizwan, the batting is anchored by him and the reliable Sam Billings. They also feature the power of Daryl Mitchell, who provides stability in the middle overs.

    ​Finishing Power: Amad Butt and the experienced Laurie Evans act as the primary finishers, ensuring the team capitalizes on strong starts.

    ​Bowling Strength: The bowling unit is led by the elite pace of Naseem Shah and the veteran experience of Mohammad Amir. Their spin department is bolstered by the rising star Rishad Hossain and Asif Afridi.

    ​Final Verdict

    ​This is a classic battle of Lahore’s pace vs. Rawalpindi’s stability. While Rawalpindiz are searching for their first win of the season, Lahore’s superior bowling depth gives them the slight edge at Karachi. Expect a high-stakes encounter where Shaheen’s opening spell against Rizwan will likely decide the momentum.

  • Rawalpindi Pindiz vs Karachi Kings – PSL 2026 Match Analysis | T20 Cricket Analysis & Prediction April 02 | Win Prediction | Score Prediction | Top Batter | Top Bowler | AI Cricket Prediction

    Rawalpindi Pindiz vs Karachi Kings – PSL 2026 Match Analysis | T20 Cricket Analysis & Prediction April 02 | Win Prediction | Score Prediction | Top Batter | Top Bowler | AI Cricket Prediction

    This preview blends probability modelling, form indicators, and situational analysis to deliver a clear PSL 2026 match prediction.

    • Match: Rawalpindi Pindiz vs Karachi Kings 
    • Tournament: PSL 2026
    • Format: Men’s T20

    Win Probability – Scenario-Based Outlook

    Scenario Karachi Kings Rawalpindi Pindiz 
    Karachi Kings bat first66.7%33.3%
    Rawalpindi Pindiz bat first100%00%

    In both of the scenarios, Karachi Kings has higher chances of winning. 

    Expected First Innings Score

    Metric Projection 
    Par score range 165-188 runs 

    The pitch looks good for batting, especially under lights. Teams batting first should aim for at least 170+ to feel safe. Anything below that could be risky.

    Expected First Innings Wickets

    MetricPrediction 
    Likely wicket 5-7 wicket 

    The expected range of first innings wickets in the match is approximately 5 to 7 wickets. 

    Top Batters to Watch (30+ Runs Probability)

    Player Team Chance
    Mohammad RizwanRP48.39%
    David WarnerKK46.89%
    Muhammad WaseemKK42.10%

    Batting Insights 

    Mohammad Rizwan (Rawalpindi Pindiz)

    ​Rizwan enters this clash as the anchor and captain of the newly formed Pindiz. While he has had a steady start to the 2026 season with 41 runs in his opening outings, he hasn’t yet unleashed the massive, match-winning knock fans expect.

    ​His strategy will likely be to navigate the early swing from Karachi’s Hasan Ali before accelerating in the middle overs. Given the dew factor expected in Lahore, if Rizwan wins the toss and bats second, he becomes incredibly dangerous, as he excels at pacing chases under lights.

    ​David Warner (Karachi Kings)

    ​The veteran opener has been a high-value asset for the Kings, living up to his heavy price tag. He has already shown flashes of brilliance this season, including a vital 35 off 22 balls against the Gladiators and a blistering 86 in a recent high-stakes match.

    David Warner plays a shot during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season Eleven match between Quetta Gladiators and Karachi Kings at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan, on March 27, 2026 © Getty Images

    ​Warner is currently one of the Kings’ top scorers with 43 runs in the official league tally (and more in warm-up/scenario matches). His role is clear: capitalize on the powerplay. On a Lahore track with an average first-innings score of 174, Warner’s ability to find boundaries early will be the engine for Karachi’s total.

    ​Muhammad Waseem (Karachi Kings)

    ​Waseem has had a bit of a “boom or bust” start to the 2026 campaign. After a disappointing duck in his first appearance, he bounced back with a gritty 38 off 37 balls against the Lahore Qalandars.

    ​While his strike rate in that specific innings was lower than his usual explosive standard (102.7), he proved he can survive tough spells. As an opener alongside Warner, he provides a “left-right” combination that can disrupt the rhythm of Rawalpindi’s pace duo, Naseem Shah and Mohammad Amir. Watch for him to take more risks early on to regain his trademark aggressive form.

    Top Bowlers – Likely Impact (2+ Wickets)

    Player Team Chance
    IhsanullahKK58.82%
    Khuzaima Bin TanvirKK47.37%
    Saad MasoodRP42.86%

    Bowling Insights 

    Ihsanullah (Karachi Kings)

    ​The “Matta Express” remains one of the most feared sights in the PSL due to his extreme pace, often clocking over 150 km/h. Now representing Karachi Kings, Ihsanullah is their primary strike weapon. His strategy usually involves intimidating batters with high-velocity bouncers and a lethal full-length delivery that attacks the stumps.

    ​Coming off a period where he focused heavily on injury recovery and refined mechanics, he is currently in peak physical condition. In this match, expect him to bowl heavily in the powerplay to rattle the openers and return at the death to use his pace-heavy yorkers.

    ​Khuzaima Bin Tanvir (Karachi Kings)

    ​Khuzaima provides a tactical contrast to the raw speed of Ihsanullah. Having sharpened his skills in the ILT20 and various T10 leagues throughout 2025 and early 2026, he has become a specialist in “change-of-pace” bowling.

    Hassan Ali celebrates taking the wicket of Haseebullah Khan during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) match between Lahore Qalandars and Karachi Kings at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan, on March 29, 2026 © Getty Images

    ​He is particularly effective on the Gaddafi Stadium surface, where his subtle variations and slower balls can be difficult to grip. His role will be to squeeze the middle overs and keep the Rawalpindi Pindiz scoring rate in check, relying more on deception than out-and-out speed.

    ​Saad Masood (Rawalpindi Pindiz)

    ​A rising star for the Pindiz, Saad Masood is a leg-break googly bowler who recently made his international debut for Pakistan in March 2026. He is a modern leg-spinner who isn’t afraid to toss the ball up, even in the high-pressure environment of the PSL.

    ​His recent form is impressive; he took 8 wickets in the Emerging Teams Asia Cup with an economy under 7.50. Against a Karachi lineup that can be aggressive, his googly will be his “get-out-of-jail” card. Watch for him to target the right-handers by dragging them forward and beating them through the gate.

    Rawalpindi Pindiz Squad Analysis

    ​The Pindiz have built a squad that balances explosive local talent with high-impact international stars, looking to dominate with an aggressive batting approach.

    ​Top Order & Leadership: Led by the reliable Mohammad Rizwan, the batting is anchored by him and the in-form Yasir Khan, who recently smashed a brilliant 83. They are supported by the experienced Sam Billings, providing a steady hand at the top.

    ​Finishing Power: The middle and lower order features the hard-hitting Kamran Ghulam and the versatile Daryl Mitchell. Their ability to clear the ropes in the final overs makes them a dangerous side during the death overs.

    ​Bowling Strength: The pace attack is spearheaded by the lightning-fast Naseem Shah and the legendary Mohammad Amir. For spin, they rely on the mystery of Rishad Hossain and the tactical discipline of Asif Afridi.

    ​Karachi Kings Squad Analysis

    ​Karachi Kings have opted for a “Star Power” strategy, bringing in legendary international names to lead their charge this season.

    ​Top Order & Leadership: Captain David Warner leads a heavy-hitting top order alongside the classy Reeza Hendricks. With veteran Moeen Ali in the mix, they possess a top flight that can take any bowling attack apart early on.

    ​Finishing Power: The Kings have a “big-hitter” philosophy for the finish, relying on Azam Khan and Khushdil Shah to provide the fireworks. Their ability to turn a decent total into a massive one is their biggest asset.

    ​Bowling Strength: Their bowling is a mix of elite spin and disciplined pace. Adam Zampa provides world-class leg-spin, while Hasan Ali and Mir Hamza lead the fast-bowling department with their ability to swing the ball and pick up crucial wickets.

    Final Conclusion

    From a data-led perspective, while both teams possess match-winning individuals, Karachi Kings enter as the slight favorites. Their recent “back-to-back” victories have given them significant momentum and a settled look. They have proven they can win tight games under pressure, particularly after their clinical defense against the Lahore Qalandars.

  • Rawalpindi Pindiz vs Peshawar Zalmi – PSL 2026 Match Analysis | T20 Cricket Analysis & Prediction March 28 | Win Prediction | Score Prediction | Top Batter | Top Bowler | AI Cricket Prediction

    Rawalpindi Pindiz vs Peshawar Zalmi – PSL 2026 Match Analysis | T20 Cricket Analysis & Prediction March 28 | Win Prediction | Score Prediction | Top Batter | Top Bowler | AI Cricket Prediction

    This preview blends probability modelling, form indicators, and situational analysis to deliver a clear T20 2026 match prediction.

    • Match: Rawalpindi Pindiz vs Peshawar Zalmi 
    • Tournament: PSL 2026
    • Format: Men’s T20

    Win Probability – Scenario-Based Outlook

    Scenario Rawalpindi Pindiz Peshawar Zalmi 
    Rawalpindi Pindiz bat first34.7%76.3%
    Peshawar Zalmi bat first28.8%72.2%

    In both the scenarios, the Peshawar Zalmi are favourites. 

    Expected First Innings Score

    Metric Projection 
    Par score range 195-205 runs 

    The pitch looks good for batting, especially under lights. Teams batting first should aim for at least 200+ to feel safe. Anything below that could be risky.

    Expected First Innings Wickets

    MetricPrediction 
    Likely wicket 6-7 wicket 

    The expected range of first innings wickets in the match is approximately 6 to 7 wickets. 

    Top Batters to Watch (30+ Runs Probability)

    Player Team Chance
    Babar AzamPZ53.29%
    Mirza BaigPZ50.00%
    Mohammad RizwanRP47.97%

    Batting Insights 

    Babar Azam

    ​Babar enters this match under a microscope regarding his T20 “intent.” While he remains the highest run-scorer in PSL history, his recent stint in the Big Bash League saw him struggle with a strike rate of just 103.

    Peshawar Zalmi’s Babar Azam reacts after playing a shot during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Twenty20 cricket match between Karachi Kings and Peshawar Zalmi at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi on May 17, 2025 © Getty Images

    ​However, Babar is just 95 runs away from 12,000 T20 runs, and the Gaddafi Stadium is a venue where he usually excels. Expect him to play the “anchor” role, but watch for a shift in his early-innings aggression—critics and fans alike are looking for him to reintroduce the lofted drives and sweeps to keep the scoreboard moving against the Rawalpindiz pace attack.

    ​Mirza Baig

    ​Mirza Tahir Baig has become a name to watch for his fearless approach at the top of the order. Known for his ability to exploit the powerplay, Baig recently showed flashes of brilliance in domestic T20s, including a blistering 72 off 37 balls* earlier this month.

    ​Unlike the more methodical Babar, Baig’s role is to provide “shock and awe” early on. If he survives the first two overs of swing, he has the hand-eye coordination to make the Lahore boundaries look very small. He is currently averaging around 28 in the T20 format with a healthy strike rate of 148, making him a dangerous “X-factor” player for this fixture.

    ​Mohammad Rizwan (Rawalpindiz)

    ​Rizwan is currently in a fascinating transition, now representing Rawalpindiz (having moved from Multan Sultans). His form has been solid but slightly cautious; he comes off an ODI series against Bangladesh where he showed glimpses of his trademark grit, though his T20 strike rate has hovered around the 125 mark.

    ​The key insight for Rizwan in this match is his battle against the dry pitch. With no dew expected for the afternoon game, he will likely rely on his elite sweep shots to neutralize the Zalmi spinners. As a player who averages over 43 in the PSL, he remains the most consistent “safe bet” for a substantial score, though his fans are hoping for a more explosive version of him in these new team colors.

    Top Bowlers – Likely Impact (2+ Wickets)

    Player Team Chance
    Khurram ShahzadPZ44.00%
    Sufiyan MuqeemPZ42.86%
    Shahnawaz DahaniPZ41.94%

    Bowling Insights 

    Khurram Shahzad (Peshawar Zalmi)

    ​Khurram is heading into the match against Rawalpindi as a vital pace asset for Peshawar. Known for his ability to extract bounce and move the ball early, he has become a reliable wicket-taker in the powerplay. Recent data shows he’s been in fine form, coming off a strong domestic season where he consistently clocked speeds north of 140 km/h.

    ​His “hit-the-deck” length makes him particularly dangerous at the Gaddafi Stadium, where the early afternoon heat can sometimes offer a bit of extra zip for fast bowlers. Watch for him to target the stumps early to disrupt the Rawalpindi openers.

    ​Sufiyan Muqeem (Peshawar Zalmi)

    ​Sufiyan is the “X-factor” spinner for Zalmi. As a left-arm wrist spinner, he offers a rare and difficult angle for batsmen to read. He holds a phenomenal T20 record, including a world-record spell of 5/3 against Zimbabwe in late 2024, proving he can run through a middle order in a matter of overs.

    ​In the 3:00 PM match, the drier afternoon pitch may offer him more grip. He isn’t just a wicket-taker; his economy rate in recent T20Is has hovered around 6.30, making him a double threat who can build pressure while hunting for breakthroughs.

    ​Shahnawaz Dahani (Multan Sultans)

    ​Dahani remains the heart of the Multan Sultans’ pace attack for the night cap against Islamabad United. Always playing with high energy, his role has evolved into a death-overs specialist. While he can be expensive at times, his ability to produce heavy balls and deceptive slower deliveries makes him a “clutch” player in the final four overs.

    Multan Sultans’ Shahnawaz Dahani celebrates after taking a catch to dismiss Quetta Gladiators’ Umar Akmal (not picture) during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Twenty20 cricket match between Multan Sultans and Quetta Gladiators at the Gaddafi Cricket Stadium in Lahore on February 18, 2022 © Getty Images

    ​After a period of working on his consistency, Dahani’s recent outings in domestic T20s show a more disciplined approach to his lines. Against a heavy-hitting Islamabad side, his battle in the death overs will likely decide the momentum of the second innings.

    Squad Strength of Peshawar Zalmi

    ​Peshawar Zalmi continues to build around their world-class leadership while integrating versatile international all-rounders to ensure balance in every department.

    • ​Top Order & Leadership: Led by the prolific Babar Azam, the batting unit relies on his stability alongside the aggressive Kusal Mendis and the innovative Mohammad Haris.
    • ​Finishing Power: The middle order is packed with muscle, featuring Iftikhar Ahmed and James Vince, who provide the necessary acceleration during the death overs.
    • ​Bowling Strength: The pace battery is spearheaded by Aamir Jamal and Khurram Shahzad, while Sufiyan Muqeem serves as the primary spin threat to control the middle phases.

    Squad Strength of ​Rawalpindiz

    ​The Rawalpindiz have assembled a squad that prioritizes high-intent batting and a fearsome pace attack, making them one of the most balanced sides this season.

    • ​Top Order & Leadership: Captained by Mohammad Rizwan, the team boasts a heavy-hitting top order with Sam Billings and the local talent Yasir Khan setting the platform.
    • ​Finishing Power: Daryl Mitchell and Amad Butt offer a perfect blend of composure and power, ensuring the team finishes strongly regardless of the match situation.
    • ​Bowling Strength: Their bowling is arguably their greatest asset, featuring the lightning-fast Naseem Shah and the legendary Mohammad Amir. For spin, they rely on the deceptive Rishad Hossain.

    Final Conclusion

    From a data-led perspective, while Rawalpindiz possesses superior “death-over” bowling, Peshawar Zalmi’s superior batting experience and recent winning momentum give them the edge.