PSL 2026: 22nd T20, PSZ vs MS Prediction: Who Will Win Peshawar Zalmi vs Multan Sultans Match?

Searching for an expert Peshawar Zalmi vs Multan Sultans prediction ahead of the high-octane 22nd T20 encounter in Pakistan Super League 2026? You’ve landed at the right destination for data-driven insights and tactical analysis. This blockbuster clash, scheduled for Monday, 13th April 2026 at National Cricket Stadium, Karachi, pits the league leaders against the chasing pack in a battle with massive playoff implications.

Peshawar Zalmi, currently topping the table with 9 points from 5 matches (4 wins, 1 NR), face a stern test from Multan Sultans, who sit second with 8 points (4 wins, 1 loss). Both teams arrive in Karachi brimming with confidence—Zalmi on the back of a dominant 76-run victory over Lahore Qalandars, while Sultans secured a comfortable 7-wicket win against Rawalpindi.

The head-to-head narrative adds spice: though Multan leads the overall record 11-7, Peshawar has won 4 of the last 5 meetings, signaling a potential shift in momentum. Key performers like Kusal Mendis (241 runs @ 172.14 SR) and Sufiyan Muqeem (10 wickets) for Zalmi, versus Sahibzada Farhan (232 runs @ 181.25 SR) and Arafat Minhas (5 wickets) for Multan, will be pivotal. With Karachi’s average first-innings score at 169 in PSL 2026, batting first could be advantageous.

Our Peshawar Zalmi vs Multan Sultans prediction analysis factors in current form, squad depth, venue dynamics, and player matchups to deliver the most informed forecast. Whether you’re a fantasy cricket enthusiast, a bettor, or a passionate PSL fan, this preview equips you with all the intelligence needed for today’s thriller. Can Zalmi extend their recent dominance, or will Multan reclaim top spot? Read on for expert insights, playing XI predictions, fantasy picks, and our final verdict on this unmissable PSL 2026 showdown.

• Peshawar Zalmi lead the PSL 2026 points table with 9 points; Multan Sultans are close behind with 8 points.
• Head-to-Head Shift: Though Multan leads overall 11-7, Peshawar has won 4 of the last 5 encounters.
• Key Form Players: Kusal Mendis (PSZ) and Sahibzada Farhan (MS) are in prolific batting form; Sufiyan Muqeem (PSZ) and Arafat Minhas (MS) lead bowling attacks.
• Prediction: Peshawar Zalmi are favorites (72% win probability) due to superior recent momentum, batting firepower, and spin dominance.

Match Details

Detail	Information
Match	Peshawar Zalmi vs Multan Sultans, 22nd T20, PSL 2026
Date	Monday, 13th April 2026
Time	7:30 PM PKT
Venue	National Cricket Stadium, Karachi
Toss	To be decided
Match Format	T20 (20 overs per side)

Peshawar Zalmi Preview

Peshawar Zalmi have emerged as the most formidable unit in the early stages of PSL 2026, combining explosive batting with disciplined bowling to claim the top spot on the points table. With 4 wins and 1 no-result from 5 matches, they boast an exceptional net run rate of +2.877—a testament to their dominance. Their recent victories showcase versatility: chasing 214 against Rawalpindi, comfortably securing a 4-wicket win over Hyderabad, posting a monstrous 246/3 to demolish Karachi Kings by 159 runs, and most recently, a comprehensive 76-run triumph against Lahore Qalandars. This consistency stems from a batting lineup firing on all cylinders.

Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batter Kusal Mendis has been sensational, amassing 241 runs in just 4 innings at a staggering average of 60.25 and strike rate of 172.14. His century against Karachi and a fluent 74 against Lahore underline his match-winning capability. Captain Babar Azam, after facing criticism for T20 struggles, has rediscovered his rhythm with 212 runs in 4 innings at 70.67 average, including a sparkling 87 and a crucial 43 in the last game. While Mendis and Babar lead the charge, support comes from Michael Bracewell (87 runs), Abdul Samad (76 runs @ 271.43 SR), and Mohammad Haris (76 runs), providing explosive middle-order depth.

Samad’s blistering strike rate makes him a lethal finisher. Bowling-wise, young leg-spinner Sufiyan Muqeem has been the standout performer, claiming 10 wickets in 4 matches, including three consecutive 3+ wicket hauls with best figures of 4/32. His ability to control the middle overs and take wickets in clusters is invaluable. Iftikhar Ahmed (7 wickets in 3 innings) offers crucial breakthroughs, while pace spearhead Nahid Rana (5 wickets) brings raw speed and aggression. All-rounders Michael Bracewell, Aamir Jamal, and Ali Raza provide tactical flexibility, allowing captain Babar Azam to adapt to match situations. The fielding unit has also been sharp, saving crucial runs.

Peshawar’s strength lies in their balance—they can post mammoth totals or chase aggressively. Their only minor concern is over-reliance on the top two; if Mendis or Babar fall early, the middle order must step up consistently. Against Multan, their strategy will likely involve exploiting the powerplay with aggressive batting, then using Muqeem’s spin to strangle Multan’s middle order. With momentum, confidence, and a well-rounded squad, Peshawar Zalmi are primed to extend their winning run and solidify their playoff position.

Multan Sultans Preview

Multan Sultans enter this crucial clash as one of PSL 2026’s most consistent franchises, sitting second on the points table with 4 wins and 1 loss from 5 matches (8 points, NRR +0.941). Their campaign has been marked by clinical performances, particularly in chases. Recent victories include a 20-run win over Lahore Qalandars in a rain-affected game, a 6-wicket triumph against Quetta Gladiators, and a dominant 7-wicket success versus Rawalpindi. The Sultans’ batting unit has been exceptionally well-balanced.

Opening sensation Sahibzada Farhan has been their standout performer, scoring 232 runs in 5 innings at an average of 58.00 and a blistering strike rate of 181.25. His century against Hyderabad and a recent 68 off 38 balls against Rawalpindi highlight his ability to dominate powerplays. His opening partner, Steve Smith, has provided stability with 144 runs at 154.84 SR, including a vital 53 against Quetta. In the middle order, captain Shan Masood has been dependable with 152 runs at 178.82 SR, anchoring innings and accelerating when needed. Josh Philippe (139 runs) and captain Ashton Turner (129 runs @ 189.71 SR) add firepower in the death overs, with Turner’s finishing ability proving crucial in tight games.

All-rounder Arafat Minhas has been a revelation, contributing 82 runs at a 200.00 SR while also leading the bowling attack with 5 wickets. His left-arm chinaman bowling has baffled batters in the middle overs. Bowling-wise, Faisal Akram (5 wickets) has been a mystery spinner, while Mohammad Nawaz (5 wickets) offers control and experience. Pace veterans Peter Siddle and Mohammad Wasim Jnr have delivered crucial breakthroughs with disciplined lines.

The Sultans’ strength lies in their depth—multiple players can win matches, and their chase record is impressive. However, a slight vulnerability exists if early wickets fall; their middle order, while capable, has occasionally struggled against high-quality spin. Against Peshawar, Multan’s key battle will be handling Sufiyan Muqeem’s leg-spin and containing Kusal Mendis at the top. Their strategy should focus on aggressive powerplay batting to set a platform, then using Minhas and Nawaz to control Zalmi’s strong middle order.

Home advantage in Karachi (a neutral venue but familiar conditions) could play a role. With momentum from recent wins and a well-rounded squad, Multan Sultans are more than capable of upsetting the table-toppers and reclaiming the top spot. Their experience in high-pressure PSL clashes makes them dangerous opponents, and they will back their clinical execution to overcome Peshawar’s recent dominance.

Team Squads

Peshawar Zalmi Squad: Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Haris, Kusal Mendis (wk), Michael Bracewell, Abdul Samad, Iftikhar Ahmed, Aamir Jamal, Farhan Yousaf, Sufiyan Muqeem, Shoriful Islam, Nahid Rana, Aaron Hardie, Ali Raza, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Kashif Ali, Khalid Usman, Abdul Subhan, James Vince

Multan Sultans Squad: Sahibzada Farhan, Steve Smith, Josh Philippe (wk), Shan Masood, Ashton Turner (c), Arafat Minhas, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Peter Siddle, Mohammad Ismail, Faisal Akram, Delano Potgieter, Lachlan Shaw, Saad Masood, Ahmed Daniyal, Salman Mirza, Tabraiz Shamsi, Jahanzaib Sultan, Awais Zafar, Momin Qamar

Probable Playing XI

Peshawar Zalmi	Multan Sultans
Babar Azam (c)	Sahibzada Farhan
Mohammad Haris	Steve Smith
Kusal Mendis (wk)	Josh Philippe (wk)
Michael Bracewell	Shan Masood
Abdul Samad	Ashton Turner (c)
Iftikhar Ahmed	Arafat Minhas
Aamir Jamal	Mohammad Nawaz
Farhan Yousaf	Mohammad Wasim Jnr
Sufiyan Muqeem	Peter Siddle
Shoriful Islam	Mohammad Ismail
Nahid Rana	Faisal Akram

Peshawar Zalmi vs Multan Sultans Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction

Player	Role	Team
Kusal Mendis (WK)	Batter	PSZ
Sahibzada Farhan	Batter	MS
Babar Azam	Batter	PSZ
Abdul Samad	All-rounder	PSZ
Arafat Minhas	All-rounder	MS
Michael Bracewell	All-rounder	PSZ
Sufiyan Muqeem	Bowler	PSZ
Mohammad Nawaz	Bowler	MS
Nahid Rana	Bowler	PSZ
Faisal Akram	Bowler	MS
Shan Masood	Batter	MS

This fantasy XI strategically balances high-ceiling performers with consistent point-scorers. Kusal Mendis is a must-have captaincy option—his recent century and 74-run knock showcase match-winning potential at the top. Pair him with Sahibzada Farhan, Multan’s most in-form opener, for explosive powerplay points. Babar Azam, rediscovering form, offers reliability and leadership points. Abdul Samad provides exceptional value with his 271.43 strike rate and useful bowling overs.

Arafat Minhas is a premium all-rounder pick, contributing with both bat (200 SR) and ball (5 wickets). Michael Bracewell adds depth with bat and off-spin. For bowling, Sufiyan Muqeem is essential—10 wickets in 4 matches, including consecutive 3+ hauls, makes him a wicket-taking machine. Mohammad Nawaz offers control and breakthroughs in middle overs. Nahid Rana brings pace aggression for early wickets. Faisal Akram is a smart differential pick with his mystery spin. Shan Masood provides middle-order stability.

Prioritize players likely to bat in powerplay or bowl in death overs. Always verify final XIs post-toss; if Multan bats first, their top order gains extra value. Avoid overloading one team—maintain a 6-5 or 5-6 split for risk mitigation.

Captain & Vice-Captain Picks

• Captain (C): Kusal Mendis (PSZ) – In blistering form (241 runs @ 172 SR), faces most deliveries, high fantasy ceiling.
• Vice-Captain (VC): Sahibzada Farhan (MS) – Consistent opener (232 runs @ 181 SR), powerplay specialist, high involvement.

Players to Avoid in Fantasy

• Mohammad Haris (PSZ): Inconsistent recent returns; Mendis/Babar are safer top-order picks.
• Steve Smith (MS): Solid but unspectacular strike rate (154); Farhan/Philippe offer higher fantasy upside.

Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts

Favourite Team & Why

Peshawar Zalmi are the clear favourites to win this 22nd T20 clash. Their recent form is simply superior—four wins in five matches, including a record-breaking 246/3 total and a dominant 76-run victory. The batting duo of Kusal Mendis and Babar Azam is firing on all cylinders, providing a formidable top-order foundation. Crucially, Sufiyan Muqeem’s spin mastery (10 wickets, including three consecutive 3+ hauls) gives Zalmi a decisive edge in Karachi’s conditions, where spinners often dominate middle overs. While Multan Sultans are consistent and dangerous, they have shown slight vulnerability against high-quality spin and aggressive powerplay batting—areas where Peshawar excels.

Additionally, Zalmi’s psychological advantage from winning 4 of the last 5 head-to-head encounters cannot be overlooked. Their superior net run rate (+2.877 vs +0.941) reflects more comprehensive victories. With momentum, balanced squad depth, and tactical flexibility under Babar Azam’s leadership, Peshawar Zalmi are better equipped to handle the pressure of a top-of-the-table clash and secure a vital two points.

Peshawar Zalmi T20 History

Stat	Value
Total Matches	118
Won	63
Lost	53
No Result	1
Tie	1

Peshawar Zalmi boast a strong T20 legacy with a 53.4% win rate, known for explosive batting and passionate fan support, consistently competing for PSL titles.

Multan Sultans T20 History

Stat	Value
Total Matches	94
Won	50
Lost	41
No Result	1
Tie	2

Multan Sultans have established themselves as PSL contenders with a 53.2% win rate, renowned for clinical chases and strategic bowling in high-pressure tournaments.

Head-to-Head Stats

Stat	Value
Total Matches	18
Peshawar Zalmi Won	7
Multan Sultans Won	11
No Result	0

Multan Sultans lead the overall head-to-head 11-7, but Peshawar Zalmi have dominated recent encounters, winning 4 of the last 5 matches—a significant momentum shift favoring the table-toppers.

Pitch Report (National Cricket Stadium, Karachi)

The National Cricket Stadium pitch in Karachi typically offers a balanced surface favoring batsmen early on, with true bounce and pace off the deck. Spinners come into play as the match progresses, with the ball gripping and turning from the 10th over onward. The average first-innings score in PSL 2026 here is 169, suggesting par is around 165-175. Teams winning the toss often opt to bat first to exploit fresh conditions and set a target, though chasing under lights is feasible with dew potential. Boundary dimensions are moderate, rewarding timing over brute power. Expect a competitive contest where 170+ is a strong total, and bowlers who vary pace and use cutters effectively will thrive in the death overs.

Weather Report

Parameter	Forecast
Condition	Clear Sky, Humid Evening
Temperature	26°C – 32°C (79°F – 90°F)
Humidity	65-75%
Wind Speed	12-18 km/h
Rain Chance	<5% (Negligible)
Dew Factor	Moderate (Expected post-8 PM)

Ideal cricketing conditions with no rain interruptions expected; dew in the second innings could assist chasing teams slightly.

Broadcast Details

The Peshawar Zalmi vs Multan Sultans 22nd T20 will be live-streamed on FanCode and TAPMAD across key regions, including South Asia. International viewers can access the match via the PSL’s official digital partners or local sports broadcasters. No widespread traditional TV broadcast is confirmed for this league-stage fixture, making digital platforms the primary destination for live action, expert commentary, and real-time statistics throughout the high-voltage PSL 2026 clash.

PSZ vs MS Toss Prediction

Given Karachi’s pitch behavior and moderate dew factor expected later in the evening, the team winning the toss is likely to opt to bat first. Setting a target allows exploitation of the best batting conditions early and applies scoreboard pressure. However, if dew is significant, chasing could be advantageous. Historical data from PSL 2026 at this venue slightly favors batting first, making it the probable strategic choice for both captains.

Powerplay Score Prediction

Team Batting First	Predicted Powerplay Score	Reason
Peshawar Zalmi	58-65 runs	Aggressive openers Mendis/Babar; high strike rates; Multan’s new-ball attack (Siddle/Wasim) is disciplined but can be targeted.
Multan Sultans	52-59 runs	Farhan/Smith are strong starters, but Zalmi’s pace duo (Rana/Shoriful) offers early swing and aggression, potentially restricting flow.

PSZ vs MS Score Prediction

Team Batting First	Predicted Total	Reason
Peshawar Zalmi	178-192 runs	Explosive top order, deep batting lineup, and Muqeem/Bracewell’s lower-order hitting. Karachi avg: 169; Zalmi’s form suggests above-par total.
Multan Sultans	148-165 runs	Strong top order but vulnerable middle order against quality spin (Muqeem). Zalmi’s bowling depth and recent form favor containment.

Probable Top Batsman & Bowler

Top Batsman Picks: Kusal Mendis (Peshawar Zalmi) is the standout choice. With 241 runs in 4 innings at a 172.14 strike rate, including a century and a fluent 74, he is in career-best T20 form. His ability to anchor and accelerate makes him a constant threat. For Multan, Sahibzada Farhan is their most reliable opener, boasting 232 runs at 181.25 SR; his powerplay dominance sets the tone for their innings.

Top Bowler Picks: Sufiyan Muqeem (Peshawar Zalmi) is unmissable—10 wickets in 4 matches, including three consecutive 3+ hauls, with exceptional control and variations. His leg-spin is lethal on Karachi surfaces. For Multan, Arafat Minhas offers dual value: 5 wickets with his mystery left-arm chinaman and crucial lower-order runs. His ability to break partnerships in the middle overs makes him a key wicket-taker. Early breakthroughs from Nahid Rana (PSZ) with pace could also prove decisive.

Winning Chances Analysis

Factor	Peshawar Zalmi (Why Win)	Multan Sultans (Why Win)
Recent Form	4 wins in 5 matches; dominant NRR (+2.877).	4 wins in 5 matches; strong chase record.
Batting	Mendis & Babar in sublime form; explosive middle order.	Farhan & Smith provide solid starts; Turner finishes well.
Bowling	Muqeem’s spin mastery; Rana’s pace aggression.	Minhas & Nawaz offer spin control; Siddle’s experience.
Head-to-Head	Won 4 of last 5 encounters; psychological edge.	Lead overall 11-7; experience in big games.
Venue	Adapted well to Karachi conditions in PSL 2026.	Familiar with neutral venue; dew could aid chase.
X-Factor	Samad’s finishing power (271 SR); tactical flexibility.	Minhas’ all-round impact; clinical chasing ability.
Overall Chance	72%	28%

Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.

FAQ – PSZ vs MS 22nd T20

Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricketwebs on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram

Legal Disclaimer: All content is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Cricketwebs does not promote betting or gambling.