The Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars prediction for the 1st Match of PSL 2025 sets the stage for an exciting clash between two fierce rivals. The ISU vs LHQ match will be played at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Friday, 11th April 2025 at 8:30 PM (IST). While Islamabad United are the defending champions, Lahore Qalandars will look to bounce back after a dismal last season.
Match Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars |
| Date | Friday, 11th April 2025 |
| Time | 8:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Pakistan |
| Tournament | Pakistan Super League 2025 |
| Broadcaster | Sony Sports Ten Network, Fancode |
Team Previews
Islamabad United Preview (ISU)
The defending champions, Islamabad United, return to the tournament with high hopes as Shadab Khan and his men aim to start their title defense on a winning note. Having clinched a record third title last season, United will be brimming with confidence. They found their momentum at the right time last year and now come into the new season with a retained core group, strategic reinforcements, and clear ambitions.
Continuity and Strength in Squad
Islamabad United has been smart in retaining its match-winners while injecting fresh talent. The side boasts one of the strongest batting lineups this season. Australian all-rounder Matthew Short joins the squad and is expected to partner with the experienced Colin Munro at the top of the order. Short’s ability to take on the bowlers during the powerplay could prove vital, especially in setting up aggressive totals.
The middle order remains solid with Shadab Khan, Agha Salman, and Azam Khan. Shadab’s leadership and all-round skills were key to United’s championship run last year, and once again, he is expected to lead by example. Azam Khan, with his explosive hitting and consistency, remains a dangerous player at No. 5, while Agha Salman brings stability with the bat and handy off-spin with the ball.
The lower middle order features powerful hitters like Haider Ali, Imad Wasim, and Jason Holder. Their finishing ability gives Islamabad a lethal edge, especially in the last 5 overs. The team has depth, with the likes of Andries Gous and Rassie van der Dussen also available if changes are needed.
Bowling Firepower
The bowling attack of Islamabad United looks well-balanced and experienced. Naseem Shah, fresh from his recovery and looking sharper than ever, leads the pace unit. He will share the new ball with Ben Dwarshuis, who offers swing and accuracy. Both bowlers have a knack for early breakthroughs.
In the middle overs, Shadab Khan and Jason Holder provide a potent combination of spin and seam, while Imad Wasim and Hunain Shah are expected to maintain control and contain opposition batters. With such variety in their attack, Islamabad can adjust to different conditions and team matchups easily.
The squad also includes backup pacers like Salman Irshad, Rumman Raees, Riley Meredith, and Saad Masood, all of whom add depth and flexibility. Spin backup comes in the form of Mohammad Nawaz, offering a left-arm option alongside Imad.
Key Players to Watch
- Shadab Khan – The leader and all-rounder who can turn games with bat or ball.
- Naseem Shah – Islamabad’s pace spearhead, looking to make a big impact early in the season.
- Matthew Short – The newcomer with explosive intent and versatility at the top.
Challenges Ahead
One area Islamabad will need to work on is their record against Lahore Qalandars, which hasn’t been favorable. They’ll need to overcome any mental blocks and start strong to set the tone for their title defense. Also, with many power-hitters, balance and shot selection under pressure will be key.
Lahore Qalandars Preview (LHQ)
After a dismal campaign in the previous edition, Lahore Qalandars enter the new season with a point to prove. Under Shaheen Afridi’s leadership, the team had a shocking fall from grace, finishing last on the points table with just one win. Determined to leave the past behind, Lahore have made some bold changes to the squad and are aiming for a fresh start.
Squad Overhaul and New Energy
Learning from last season’s failures, the Qalandars have brought in a mix of experienced campaigners and exciting youngsters. The top order will feature Fakhar Zaman and Kusal Perera, both aggressive left-handers capable of giving blistering starts. Fakhar’s recent form has been promising, and he will be key to Lahore’s fortunes.
Abdullah Shafique, who plays the anchor’s role at No. 3, is tasked with stabilizing the innings and building partnerships. He’ll be joined in the middle order by Daryl Mitchell and Sikandar Raza, two dependable all-rounders who can adapt their game to the situation.
Down the order, hitters like Shaheen Afridi and David Wiese will look to finish games and contribute quick runs. With this blend of explosive and steady batsmen, Lahore have the tools to post or chase big totals.
Wicketkeeping Options
The squad has multiple wicketkeeper-batsmen in Kusal Perera, Muhammad Akhlaq, and Sam Billings. This provides the team flexibility depending on conditions and combinations. Perera is likely to start as the first-choice, given his current form and experience.
Bowling Line-Up: Power with Precision
Lahore Qalandars’ strength has always been their bowling, and this season is no different. Shaheen Afridi leads the charge, eager to redeem himself and his team. He will pair with the fiery Zaman Khan, whose yorkers and death-over skills have been impressive.
The middle overs will be handled by a variety of bowlers, including Haris Rauf, David Wiese, and Rishad Hossain. Rauf’s raw pace and experience in pressure situations make him invaluable. Asif Afridi, a left-arm spinner, adds variety and will enjoy bowling on slower tracks. Sikandar Raza can bowl useful off-spin and chip in with wickets too.
New faces like Momin Qamar, Mohammad Azab, and Salman Mirza offer bowling depth. Jahandad Khan and Tom Curran, both all-rounders, bring additional pace options and can be valuable assets depending on the conditions.
Key Players to Watch
- Shaheen Afridi – The captain and spearhead of the attack, who must inspire the team both with the ball and as a leader.
- Fakhar Zaman – The explosive opener who can single-handedly change games with his power hitting.
- Sikandar Raza – A consistent performer with both bat and ball, offering balance to the side.
Areas to Improve
Lahore must address their lack of consistency, especially in the middle overs with both bat and ball. The supporting attack crumbled under pressure last year, and Afridi will want his men to stay sharp in crunch moments. Fielding also needs improvement, as several matches were lost due to dropped chances and misfields.
Their performance against Islamabad United has been decent historically, and a good showing in the opening match can help set the right tone.
Also Check: “Viewers will leave the IPL to watch us”: Hassan Ali makes big claim ahead of PSL 2025 season
Betting Tips for Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars – PSL 2025
The opening clash of PSL 2025 between Islamabad United (ISU) and Lahore Qalandars (LHQ) presents exciting betting opportunities. With ISU being the defending champions and LHQ looking to bounce back after a poor season, this match promises high stakes. Here are some key betting tips to consider before placing your wagers.
Match Winner Betting:
Islamabad United enters this game as strong favorites (71% win probability) due to their balanced squad and recent form. Lahore Qalandars, despite having star players like Shaheen Afridi and Fakhar Zaman, have struggled with consistency. Betting on ISU to win is a safer option, but if you’re looking for higher odds, a small punt on LHQ pulling off an upset could be rewarding.
Top Batsman Bets:
For Islamabad United, Colin Munro and Azam Khan are prime candidates for top scorer. Munro’s aggressive starts and Khan’s explosive middle-order hitting make them strong picks. For Lahore Qalandars, Fakhar Zaman is always a threat, especially in powerplays, while Daryl Mitchell offers stability. If you want a high-risk, high-reward bet, Kusal Perera could be a dark horse.
Top Bowler Bets:
Shaheen Afridi (LHQ) is the most likely to take early wickets, making him a solid choice for top bowler. For ISU, Naseem Shah and Shadab Khan are key wicket-takers. If the pitch assists spin, Imad Wasim’s economical bowling could fetch crucial wickets.
Total Runs & Sixes Market:
Given Rawalpindi’s batting-friendly pitch, the match total is likely to exceed 170+. Betting on over 8.5 sixes in the match is a good option, considering the power-hitters in both lineups.
Live Betting Strategy:
If ISU loses early wickets, odds may shift in LHQ’s favor, presenting a chance to back Lahore at better prices. Conversely, if LHQ’s top order collapses, increasing bets on ISU during live play could maximize returns.
Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
As Islamabad United gear up to face Lahore Qalandars in another thrilling PSL contest, fantasy cricket enthusiasts have their eyes set on crafting a winning Dream11 team. The matchup features a host of impactful players from both sides, making it a tough yet exciting challenge to select the right combination. For Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction, a focus on proven all-rounders and in-form big-hitters will be key to gaining the fantasy edge.
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Matthew Short | Batsman |
| Colin Munro | Batsman |
| Fakhar Zaman | Batsman |
| Shadab Khan (C) | All-Rounder |
| Daryl Mitchell | All-Rounder |
| Sikandar Raza | All-Rounder |
| Jason Holder | All-Rounder |
| Azam Khan (VC) | Wicket-Keeper |
| Shaheen Afridi | Bowler |
| Naseem Shah | Bowler |
| Haris Rauf | Bowler |
Captain: Shadab Khan
Vice-Captain: Azam Khan
Players to Avoid:
- Jahandad Khan – Lack of experience at the top level.
- Salman Masood – Unlikely to feature in the starting XI.
Shadab Khan is an ideal captaincy pick for this contest, given his consistent contributions with both bat and ball. He plays a pivotal role for Islamabad United and can be a game-changer, especially in crunch moments. With the ability to pick wickets in the middle overs and score quick runs down the order, Shadab offers immense fantasy value. Alongside him, Azam Khan stands out as a strong vice-captain choice. Known for his explosive hitting and improving consistency, Azam has the potential to rack up points quickly and can also contribute behind the stumps.
Colin Munro and Matthew Short are vital top-order batters for Islamabad who can provide solid starts. Fakhar Zaman, representing Lahore Qalandars, is another key pick due to his aggressive style and ability to capitalize on powerplay overs. Daryl Mitchell and Sikandar Raza offer tremendous depth as all-rounders who can chip in with both bat and ball, while Jason Holder adds experience and can be effective in the death overs with both disciplines.
In the bowling department, Shaheen Afridi is expected to lead from the front for Lahore. His early breakthroughs can turn matches around, while Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf bring pace and aggression that can trouble even the best batters. Their wicket-taking ability at crucial stages makes them valuable fantasy additions.
Fantasy players should consider avoiding Jahandad Khan due to his lack of top-level experience, and Salman Masood, who is unlikely to be included in the starting XI. A mix of in-form all-rounders, aggressive batters, and strike bowlers will be essential to dominating fantasy leagues in this high-voltage Islamabad vs Lahore clash.
Also Check: Get The Best Dream11 Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today
Islamabad United is the favorite in today’s match. With more stability, better form, and key players in top shape, they are well-equipped to outplay the Qalandars, who are still searching for the right combinations.
ISU vs LHQ Squad
Islamabad United Squad
Naseem Shah, Shadab Khan, Matthew Short, Azam Khan, Imad Wasim, Jason Holder, Haider Ali, Salman Ali Agha, Benjamin Dwarshuis, Colin Munro, Rumman Raees, Andries Gous, Mohammad Nawaz, Salman Irshad, Rassie van der Dussen, Riley Meredith, Sam Billings, Hunain Shah, Saad Masood.
Lahore Qalandars Squad
Fakhar Zaman, Shaheen Afridi, Daryl Mitchell, Haris Rauf, Sikandar Raza, Kusal Perera, Abdullah Shafique, Jahandad Khan, Zaman Khan, David Wiese, Asif Afridi, Asif Ali Mohammad Akhlaq, Rishad Hossain, Muhammad Naeem, Salman Ali Mirza, Tom Curran, Momin Qamar, Muhammad Azab.
Probable Playing XI
Islamabad United:
Matthew Short, Colin Munro, Azam Khan (wk), Shadab Khan (c), Salman Agha, Imad Wasim, Jason Holder, Haider Ali, Naseem Shah, Ben Dwarshuis, Hunain Shah
Lahore Qalandars:
Fakhar Zaman, Kusal Perera, Abdullah Shafique, Daryl Mitchell, Sikandar Raza, Asif Ali, Shaheen Afridi (c), Zaman Khan, Haris Rauf, Asif Afridi, David Wiese
Pitch Report (Rawalpindi)
The Rawalpindi pitch offers excellent batting conditions early on with a flat surface. Seamers get swing under lights, and spinners can be useful in middle overs. Expect a high-scoring affair.
- Average 1st innings score: 175+
- Batting 2nd becomes slightly easier with dew.
Weather Report
- Temperature: 24°C
- Humidity: 54%
- Wind: 10 km/h
- Rain: 0% chance – perfect conditions for cricket.
Broadcast Details
- India: Sony Sports Network, Fancode
- Pakistan: A Sports, Ten Sports, PTV Sports
- Online: SonyLiv, Tapmad
Islamabad United T20 Stats
| Matches | Wins | Losses | No Result | Ties |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 102 | 56 | 44 | 2 | 0 |
Lahore Qalandars T20 Stats
| Matches | Wins | Losses | No Result | Ties |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 102 | 46 | 55 | 1 | 0 |
Head-to-Head Record
| Total Matches | ISU Won | LHQ Won | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 19 | 10 | 9 | 0 |
Also Check: Lahore Qalandars vs Islamabad United Head to Head in PSL – Records, Team & Players Stats
Score Prediction
- If Islamabad United Bat First: 178+
- If Lahore Qalandars Bat First: 168+
Toss Prediction
- Toss Winner: Lahore Qalandars
Match Prediction
Match Winner: Islamabad United Will Win
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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 – ISU vs LHQ 1st PSL T20
Who will win today’s ISU vs LHQ match?
Islamabad United are likely to win based on recent form and stronger squad depth.
Who is the top fantasy captain pick?
Shadab Khan – contributes with both bat and ball.
Which team has better bowling?
Lahore Qalandars have historically had a better bowling lineup but Islamabad’s current form gives them an edge.
What’s the average score at Rawalpindi?
Around 175 in T20s – it’s a batting-friendly venue.
Where to watch ISU vs LHQ live?
Sony Sports Network, Fancode (India), A Sports/PTV (Pakistan).
Who has a better head-to-head record?
Islamabad United leads 10-9 in head-to-head clashes.
Match Summary
The Pakistan Super League 2025 opener between Islamabad United and Lahore Qalandars promises fireworks. With Islamabad aiming to defend their title and Lahore Qalandars seeking redemption from a dismal 2024 season, this clash has high stakes. Both sides bring flair, but Islamabad’s balanced combination and winning form give them the upper hand. Expect a high-scoring encounter on a flat Rawalpindi wicket. Shadab Khan’s all-round brilliance could be the difference-maker, while Lahore will rely on Afridi and Fakhar to spark a revival. All signs point to Islamabad United starting PSL 2025 on a winning note.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
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