ISLAMABAD: Lahore Qalandars won the toss and chose to bat first in the crucial second qualifier match against Islamabad United.
The game is taking place at Lahore’s iconic Gaddafi Stadium and carries major importance, as both teams compete for a spot in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) final.
Team Performances and Background
Lahore Qalandars entered the match with a seasoned squad, while Islamabad United is banking on their strong batting and bowling lineup.
United finished second in the league stage with six wins out of 10 matches, including an impressive five-match winning streak.
However, they lost the first qualifier to the Quetta Gladiators by 30 runs.
Qalandars, on the other hand, secured fourth place in the league table and advanced by defeating Karachi Kings in Eliminator 1 with a 6-wicket win.
Stakes and History
Islamabad United are aiming to make history by winning their fourth PSL title, a unique achievement in the league.
Meanwhile, Shaheen Afridi’s Lahore Qalandars have already won two PSL titles (2022 and 2023), both at the Gaddafi Stadium, and they are now aiming to complete a historic treble on their home ground.
Playing Squads
Lahore Qalandars Squad:
Fakhar Zaman, Muhammad Naeem, Abdullah Shafique, Kusal Perera (wicketkeeper), Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Shakib Al Hasan, Asif Ali, Shaheen Afridi (captain), Salman Mirza, Zaman Khan, Haris Rauf
Islamabad United Squad:
Shadab Khan (captain), Sahibzada Farhan, Rassie van der Dussen, Haider Ali, Shehzad, Salman Agha, Jimmy Neesham, Imad Wasim, Tymal Mills, Naseem Shah, Irshad Ahmed
