LAHORE: The highly anticipated clash between Lahore Qalandars and Multan Sultans unfolded today at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, marking the 16th match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025. Lahore Qalandars won the toss and opted to bowl first, a decision that reflects their strategy to leverage home conditions.
Currently, Lahore Qalandars sit third on the points table with two wins and three losses from five matches. After a shaky start that saw them lose their first game against Islamabad United, the Qalandars found their rhythm, securing victories against Quetta Gladiators and Karachi Kings. However, they faced setbacks in their last two outings, suffering defeats against Multan Sultans and Peshawar Zalmi, which has put them in a position where they need a win to solidify their playoff aspirations.
On the flip side, Multan Sultans are struggling at the bottom of the table, managing only one win from five matches. Their sole victory came against the Qalandars in their previous encounter, where they triumphed by a significant 33 runs. Following that win, however, the Sultans fell to Islamabad United, further complicating their route to the playoffs. Led by captain Muhammad Rizwan, they are keen to turn their fortunes around and gain momentum in the tournament.
The stakes are high for both teams. With all teams set to play ten matches each, Multan Sultans face a critical juncture; another loss could severely diminish their chances of qualifying for the playoffs. Meanwhile, Lahore Qalandars are equally desperate for a win after their recent loss to Peshawar, where they were bowled out for a mere 129 runs, leading to a seven-wicket defeat.
As the match commenced, the playing elevens for both teams were announced:
Lahore Qalandars: Fakhar Zaman, Muhammad Naeem, Abdullah Shafique, Daryl Mitchell, Sam Billings (wk), Sikandar Raza, Asif Ali, Tom Curran, Shaheen Afridi (c), Haris Rauf, Asif Afridi.
Multan Sultans: Muhammad Rizwan (c), Shai Hope, Yasir Khan, Usman Khan (wk), Kamran Ghulam, Michael Bracewell, Iftikhar Ahmed, Ubaid Shah, Muhammad Hasnain, Akif Javed, Josh Little.
The Qalandars have made two changes, bringing in Tom Curran and Muhammad Naeem to replace Rishad Hossain and Muhammad Azab, respectively. On the other hand, the Sultans also opted for two changes, introducing Shai Hope and Akif Javed in place of Tayyab Tahir and Usama Mir.
Historically, the Qalandars and Sultans have faced each other 19 times in the PSL, with the Sultans narrowly leading the head-to-head record with ten wins compared to the Qalandars' nine. This match, therefore, not only holds significance for the points table but also for the psychological edge in their rivalry.
The match is being closely followed, with fans eager to see if Lahore can avenge their previous defeat to Multan. The atmosphere at the Gaddafi Stadium is electric, with supporters rallying behind their teams. Lahore Qalandars are looking to capitalize on their home advantage, while Multan Sultans are desperate to find their footing in the tournament.
As the game progresses, every ball bowled and every run scored will be crucial for both teams. Fans can expect an intense battle as both sides vie for a vital win that could shape their seasons in the PSL.
With the PSL being a competitive platform, both teams will need to bring their A-game to secure a spot in the playoffs. The Qalandars, despite their recent losses, have shown resilience and will be looking to harness their strengths to overcome the Sultans. Meanwhile, Multan will aim to build on their previous victory against Lahore and turn their season around.
As the match unfolds, the cricketing world watches closely, eager to see how this thrilling encounter will impact the PSL standings and the fortunes of both teams.
