The stage is set for a high-stakes clash as Lahore Qalandars host Islamabad United in Eliminator 2 of the Pakistan Super League 2025. The match will be played at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Friday, with the winner sealing a place in the final against Quetta Gladiators.
Recent Form and Match Context
Islamabad United, the defending champions, suffered a comprehensive defeat at the hands of Quetta Gladiators in the Qualifier. Their performance was underwhelming in all departments, but they now have one last opportunity to make a comeback and defend their title.
Lahore Qalandars, on the other hand, look rejuvenated after their six-wicket win over Karachi Kings in Eliminator 1. With momentum on their side, they’ll be eager to continue their winning run in front of a home crowd.
The two teams have met twice this season, with each side winning one game apiece, setting up a tantalizing decider.
Head-to-Head (Last 4 Matches)
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Islamabad United Wins: 2
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Lahore Qalandars Wins: 2
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No Result: 0
Recent Performances
Islamabad United (Last 5 Matches): L, W, L, L, L
Lahore Qalandars (Last 5 Matches): W, W, L, W, W
Team Overview: Islamabad United
Islamabad’s batting unit will rely heavily on Sahibzada Farhan, who has been in excellent form. His half-century in the previous game was a rare positive. Rassie van der Dussen and Agha Salman also contributed with the bat, but the middle-order inconsistency continues to haunt United.
Bowling remains a concern. While Salman Irshad impressed with 2 for 34, the rest of the attack struggled to contain runs.
Probable XI:
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Shadab Khan (captain)
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Alex Hales
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Sahibzada Farhan
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Rassie van der Dussen
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Agha Salman
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Haider Ali
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Ben Dwarshuis / Tymal Mills
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Salman Irshad
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Ghazi Ghori (wk)
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Imad Wasim
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Naseem Shah
Team Overview: Lahore Qalandars
The Qalandars are peaking at the right time. Abdullah Shafique’s 65 off 35 balls was a match-winning knock in the previous game, while Fakhar Zaman provided a blistering start. The top order looks in solid touch.
On the bowling front, Haris Rauf led from the front with a three-wicket haul, and the experienced Shaheen Shah Afridi chipped in with two wickets.
Probable XI:
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Shaheen Shah Afridi (captain)
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Abdullah Shafique
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Fakhar Zaman
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Kusal Perera (wk)
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Shakib Al Hasan
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Bhanuka Rajapaksa
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Mohammad Naeem
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Asif Ali
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Salman Mirza
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Zaman Khan
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Haris Rauf
Key Players to Watch
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Sahibzada Farhan (ISU): Has been Islamabad’s most consistent batter. His form at the top will be crucial.
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Abdullah Shafique (LHQ): The stylish right-hander is coming off a blistering knock and will look to dominate again.
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Shaheen Afridi (LHQ): As captain and lead pacer, he brings intensity and early breakthroughs.
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Salman Irshad (ISU): Has the knack for picking wickets in the middle overs.
Pitch and Weather Report
The Gaddafi Stadium pitch is expected to be a batting paradise, with some assistance for spinners as the game progresses. It is expected to be a high-scoring affair, especially for the team batting first. With clear skies and no chance of rain, weather conditions are ideal for cricket.
Recommended Toss Decision: Win toss and bat first. Teams chasing have found it difficult as the pitch tends to slow down.
Match Prediction
On current form and momentum, Lahore Qalandars hold a slight edge going into this clash. Their top-order batting has clicked, and their bowling looks sharper than Islamabad’s.
Prediction: Lahore Qalandars to win a close contest and qualify for the final.