Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars Playing11, PSL 2025: IU vs LQ Probable Playing XI Preview, Team News, 1st Match

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Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars Playing11, PSL 2025: The 10th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 begins with a blockbuster clash between Islamabad United (ISL) and Lahore Qalandars (LQ) at the iconic Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on April 11.

Both teams boast a rich PSL legacy and are eager to stamp their authority right from the opening game. Islamabad United, the reigning champions and three-time PSL winners, will be led by the energetic Shadab Khan.

Meanwhile, Lahore Qalandars, led by fiery pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, are eyeing their third title after previous glories. A high-octane encounter awaits fans as both sides are brimming with match-winners.

Match Information

• Date: April 11, 2025
• Time: 9:00 PM IST (Toss at 8:30 PM IST)
• Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
• Broadcast: Sony Sports Network (India)
• Live Stream: FanCode app and website (India)

Pitch and Weather Conditions

The Rawalpindi pitch is a known ally for batters, offering consistent pace and bounce that makes stroke play easier. While early movement for pacers is expected, the dew factor later in the night could tilt things in favour of the team batting second. Historically, this venue has seen high-scoring thrillers, and fans can expect no less in this opening clash.

Weather-wise, the skies are predicted to remain clear throughout the evening. With temperatures hovering around a pleasant 20°C and no rain forecast, it's perfect cricketing weather for the grand PSL opener.

Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars Preview:

Islamabad United: Islamabad United have assembled a formidable squad once again. The top order features Colin Munro's explosive left-handed prowess, while the likes of Rassie van der Dussen and Azam Khan provide solidity and firepower in the middle. Add in all-rounders like Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, and Jason Holder, and you have a side capable of dominating in all departments.

Lahore Qalandars: LQ will bank on Fakhar Zaman and Kusal Perera to give them explosive starts. The inclusion of experienced players like Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell adds depth, while all-rounders like Sikandar Raza provide versatility. Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf form a lethal bowling duo, capable of rattling any opposition on their day.

Key Players to Watch

• Shadab Khan (IU): The captain all-rounder is coming off a stellar season. His ability to control the middle overs and contribute with the bat makes him a game-changer.
• Azam Khan (ISL): Known for his big-hitting, Azam has a strike rate of 146.90 in the PSL and will look to finish the innings with fireworks.
• Naseem Shah (IU): The young pacer will spearhead the attack with his pace and accuracy. He’s key to denting LQ’s top order.
• Fakhar Zaman (LQ): A proven performer, Fakhar can single-handedly win games with his aggressive top-order batting.
• Sikandar Raza (LQ): A utility player who can bat and bowl efficiently, Raza is capable of turning the match around in any situation.
• Shaheen Afridi (LQ): The captain will lead from the front. His ability to take early wickets and bowl at the death makes him indispensable.

Team News and Updates

Islamabad United enter the contest with a fully fit squad. Shadab has confirmed that all players are available for selection. The likes of Andries Gous and Mohammad Nawaz are expected to sit out the opener unless needed later in the season.

Lahore Qalandars too have no major injury concerns. While David Wiese and Tom Curran remain match-ready, they may not feature in the starting XI as the team opts for a balanced local-foreign mix.

Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars Probable Playing11

Islamabad United: Colin Munro, Haider Ali, Rassie van der Dussen, Salman Ali Agha, Azam Khan (WK), Imad Wasim, Jason Holder, Shadab Khan (C), Naseem Shah, Riley Meredith, Rumman Raees

Lahore Qalandars: Fakhar Zaman, Kusal Perera, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Asif Ali, Muhammad Naeem, Muhammad Akhlaq (WK), Shaheen Afridi (C), Haris Rauf, Zaman Khan, Momin Qamar

Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars Full Squads

Islamabad United Squad: Colin Munro, Haider Ali, Rassie van der Dussen, Salman Agha, Azam Khan (w), Imad Wasim, Jason Holder, Shadab Khan (c), Naseem Shah, Riley Meredith, Rumman Raees, Andries Gous, Salman Irshad, Saad Masood, Hunain Shah, Ben Dwarshuis, Matthew Short, Mohammad Nawaz

Lahore Qalandars Squad: Fakhar Zaman, Kusal Perera, Daryl Mitchell, Sam Billings, Asif Ali, Mohammad Naeem, Muhammad Akhlaq (w), Shaheen Afridi (c), Haris Rauf, Zaman Khan, Momin Qamar, David Wiese, Sikandar Raza, Tom Curran, Abdullah Shafique, Rishad Hossain, Salman Mirza, Asif Afridi, Jahandad Khan, Mohammad Azab