As the Pakistan Super League (PSL) approaches its historic 10th season, the tournament could not have been given a better launch. The three-time winners Islamabad United will face two-time champions Lahore Qalandars in PSL 10 opening fixture at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium—a stadium famous for high-scoring thrillers and electric environments.
A Fierce Rivalry: Head-to-Head Stats
In more than 19 meetings, Islamabad United is ahead of Lahore Qalandars 10-9. Both teams have made history in the performances in the rivalry, with Fakhar Zaman (498 runs) and Shadab Khan (22 wickets) becoming the dominant players in the clash. Islamabad’s top score against Lahore is 238, and Lahore in return has made a best of 226. The wars have often gone in favour of the team batting first, although Islamabad has chased six scores successfully as well.
Islamabad United: Firepower and Confidence
Following their title-winning season in 2024, Islamabad United is full of confidence. Skipper Shadab Khan has a team full of seasoned stars and emerging players. T20 veteran Colin Munro heads their top order, with Sahibzada Farhan, the top run-getter of 2025 National T20 Cup with 605 runs at a 189+ strike rate, offering a big middle-order push.
With Azam Khan’s fearsome death-overs power (strike rate 252 last season), Islamabad’s batting attack can kill even the most potent bowling lines. Their pace attack is equally strong—Naseem Shah returns from injury to spearhead the team with brother Hunain, ably supported by overseas pacers Riley Meredith and Ben Dwarshuis.
Lahore Qalandars: Time to Bounce Back
Lahore Qalandars were forgettable in PSL 2024, finishing last on the table. But with consecutive titles in 2022 and 2023, they’ve proved they can bounce back under pressure. Skipper Shaheen Afridi, who took 15 wickets against Islamabad, is still their leader. Haris Rauf and Zaman Khan—deadly around Rawalpindi—are a strong fast bowling contingent.
With the bat, Fakhar Zaman will try to reach 500 runs against Islamabad. Even out of touch in recent times, he has a strike rate of more than 160 at Rawalpindi. New recruits such as Kusal Perera bring variation, while David Wiese’s death overs consistency provides Lahore with a finisher few teams can equal.
Rawalpindi Conditions: Bat First or Chase?
With good carry, bounce, and short boundaries, Rawalpindi assures runs. Fast bowlers will relish early swing, but as batters settle in, it becomes a heaven for stroke-makers. Dew could creep in for the second innings, benefiting the chasing team—a tactical consideration captains will keep in mind at the toss.
Players to Watch
- Shadab Khan (ISL): All-round danger with 313 runs & 22 wickets against Lahore.
- Fakhar Zaman (LQ): Requires 2 runs to reach 500 vs ISL.
- Sahibzada Farhan (ISL): 3 centuries in current T20 Cup.
- Shaheen Afridi (LQ): Game-changer for new ball.
- David Wiese (LQ): 200+ strike rate for PSL death overs.
PSL 10 starts on a heavyweight note that promises to define the season. Islamabad United would like to etch their history by winning a fourth title, while Lahore Qalandars look for redemption. Star-studded teams, electric environment, and conditions aplenty for drama—cricket fans are in for a night to remember.
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