The Pakistan Super League 2025 is heating up as we enter a crucial phase of the group stage, and Match 26 brings a high-stakes clash between Islamabad United and Quetta Gladiators. Set to take place at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on May 7, 2025, at 8:30 PM PKT, this contest could play a key role in shaping the playoff race.
Both teams have had a history of competitive battles in the PSL, and with the Rawalpindi pitch known for favoring batters, fans can expect another thrilling encounter under the lights.
Match Details
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Fixture: Islamabad United vs Quetta Gladiators
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Date: May 7, 2025
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Time: 8:30 PM PKT
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Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
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Broadcast: A Sports HD, Ten Sports HD, Tapmad (Digital)
Team Overviews
Islamabad United (ISL):
The defending champions have been inconsistent this season but still remain a major threat. Led by Shadab Khan, ISL features a well-balanced unit with explosive batters and skillful bowlers. Their top order, led by Sahibzada Farhan and Alex Hales, has shown promise, while the likes of Azam Khan and Colin Munro provide muscle in the middle. The bowling department is spearheaded by Imad Wasim and Naseem Shah, both delivering match-winning spells in different phases of the tournament.
Home advantage could be key here—ISL have won 3 of their 5 games at Rawalpindi, and they will be eager to bounce back after a narrow loss to Quetta just four days ago.
Quetta Gladiators (QUE):
Quetta Gladiators come into this match riding high on a nail-biting two-wicket win over ISL in Match 23. Under the leadership of Rilee Rossouw, QUE’s batting has begun to click at the right time. Hasan Nawaz’s sensational match-winning 64* in the last game proved that their middle order can handle pressure. Mohammad Amir and Faheem Ashraf bring pace experience to the attack, while spinner Akeal Hosein has been economical in middle overs.
With their confidence boosted, QUE will be looking to do the double over ISL this season and push deeper into playoff contention.
Head-to-Head Record
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Matches Played: 19
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Islamabad United Wins: 10
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Quetta Gladiators Wins: 9
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Win Percentage (ISL): 52.63%
The head-to-head record reflects how close these two teams are, with Islamabad United holding a narrow lead.
Pitch & Conditions – Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
Rawalpindi offers one of the flattest decks in Pakistan, with short boundaries and true bounce aiding batters. The average first innings score here in recent seasons has hovered around 190. Seamers might get some swing early, but spinners often struggle unless there’s grip on offer. Dew in the second innings can play a factor, so chasing teams generally have an edge.
Key Players to Watch
Islamabad United:
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Sahibzada Farhan: A consistent performer at the top, Farhan is known for anchoring innings and playing big shots late.
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Imad Wasim: The left-arm spinner has turned games in the powerplay and provides depth in batting.
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Naseem Shah: With raw pace and aggression, Naseem can break partnerships and stall momentum.
Quetta Gladiators:
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Hasan Nawaz: The young star played a stunning knock in the last game and could be the X-factor again.
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Faheem Ashraf: His 4-wicket haul in Match 23 was instrumental in restricting ISL. He also provides late-hitting ability.
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Rilee Rossouw: The captain has struggled for consistency but has the experience to turn the tide.
Probable Playing XIs
Islamabad United:
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Alex Hales
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Sahibzada Farhan
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Shadab Khan (c)
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Colin Munro
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Azam Khan (wk)
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Imad Wasim
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Faheem Ashraf
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Naseem Shah
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Tom Curran
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Salman Irshad
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Rumman Raees
Impact Player: Hunain Shah
Quetta Gladiators:
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Jason Roy
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Saud Shakeel
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Rilee Rossouw (c)
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Khawaja Nafay
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Omair Yousuf
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Hasan Nawaz
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Sarfaraz Ahmed (wk)
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Faheem Ashraf
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Mohammad Amir
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Akeal Hosein
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Mohammad Wasim Jr.
Impact Player: Abrar Ahmed
Probable Match Scenarios
If Islamabad United bat first:
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Powerplay Score: 55–65
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Total: 185–200
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Chances: Moderate to high depending on early wickets
If Quetta Gladiators bat first:
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Powerplay Score: 60–70
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Total: 190–210
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Chances: Strong if top order clicks
Match Prediction
This is expected to be a tightly contested game. Islamabad United will be eager to settle the score after their recent defeat, and with the home crowd behind them, they might hold a slight psychological edge. However, Quetta Gladiators’ batting form—especially Hasan Nawaz and Omair Yousuf—adds firepower to their chase.
Prediction: Islamabad United to win if they bowl second.
Expect a high-scoring contest with the batters dominating unless early wickets shake things up.