As the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 continues to unfold, Karachi Kings will lock horns with Islamabad United in what promises to be a highly anticipated battle at the National Stadium Karachi on Sunday, April 20, 2025. Scheduled to begin at 8:30 PM (PST), the match holds great importance for both teams as they seek to gain an early advantage in the league standings.
Match Details
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Match: Karachi Kings vs Islamabad United
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Date: April 20, 2025
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Time: 8:30 PM (PST)
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Venue: National Stadium, Karachi
Weather and Pitch Report
Weather:
The weather in Karachi is expected to be clear with 0% chance of rain, ensuring a full 40-over contest. The temperature will hover around 27.8°C, with mild humidity that may aid swing bowling in the early stages. Slight cloud cover might offer further help to the pacers, especially during the first innings.
Pitch Report:
The pitch at the National Stadium is known for providing a balanced contest between bat and ball.
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Pacers are likely to enjoy early movement and bounce, particularly under the lights.
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The true bounce and fast outfield make it rewarding for batters once they settle in.
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As the match progresses, the pitch tends to flatten, favoring stroke-makers in the second half.
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Spinners might find some grip in the middle overs, but the surface is generally more batter-friendly than spin-friendly.
Venue Stats:
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Average 1st Innings Score: 177
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Average 2nd Innings Score: 161
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Highest Team Total: 229/4 by Islamabad United vs Quetta Gladiators
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Lowest Team Total: 101 all out by Karachi Kings vs Multan Sultans
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Win % (Batting First): 26%
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Win % (Bowling First): 74%
Team Overviews
Karachi Kings
Karachi Kings are under pressure to deliver after a couple of inconsistent seasons. They’ll rely heavily on their power-packed middle order and all-rounders to set or chase targets. The support of the home crowd will be vital, and the team will be eager to begin strong in front of local fans.
Islamabad United
A two-time PSL champion, Islamabad United are known for their aggressive brand of cricket and strong team balance. Their depth in batting and variety in the bowling attack give them a well-rounded unit. They’ve historically performed well at Karachi and would be confident heading into this clash.
Head-to-Head Record
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Total Matches Played: 19
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Karachi Kings Wins: 6
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Islamabad United Wins: 13
Islamabad United have dominated this rivalry over the years, giving them a psychological edge heading into the contest.
Predicted Playing XIs
Karachi Kings (KK)
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James Vince
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Shan Masood (c)
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Shoaib Malik
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Mohammad Nawaz
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Kieron Pollard
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Irfan Khan Niazi
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Mohammad Amir
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Tabraiz Shamsi
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Arafat Minhas
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Mir Hamza
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Jamie Overton
Islamabad United (IU)
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Alex Hales
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Colin Munro
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Shadab Khan (c)
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Azam Khan (wk)
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Faheem Ashraf
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Imad Wasim
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Haider Ali
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Naseem Shah
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Rumman Raees
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Tymal Mills
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Abrar Ahmed
Key Players to Watch
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Shadab Khan (IU): A game-changer with both bat and ball, Shadab’s form will be key to United’s success.
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Mohammad Amir (KK): Back on his home turf, Amir will be crucial with the new ball under the lights.
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Azam Khan (IU): Known for explosive finishes, Azam can take the game away in the death overs.
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James Vince (KK): If he gets going at the top, Karachi can post or chase a big score.
Probable Scenarios
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If Karachi Kings bat first: Expect a target around 170–180, but they’ll need to be cautious of losing early wickets to United’s pacers.
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If Islamabad United bat first: Their power-hitters could push the score beyond 190 if they get going.
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Toss Advantage: With 74% win rate for teams bowling first at this venue, the toss-winning captain is likely to field first.
Match Prediction
Considering recent form, squad balance, and historical performance at this venue, Islamabad United enter as slight favorites. However, Karachi Kings have the home advantage and enough firepower to pull off a surprise.
Prediction:
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If Islamabad United bowl first, they have a strong chance to chase and win.
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If Karachi Kings field first, expect a closer game, with the match possibly going down to the final over.
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Overall Pick: Islamabad United to win a close contest