The ninth match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 is set to take place between Multan Sultans and Peshawar Zalmi at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on April 19 at 08:30 PM IST. Both teams are desperate for a win, having started their campaigns with back-to-back losses, and this encounter promises to be a high-stakes battle as they seek to get their seasons back on track.
Team Overviews
Multan Sultans
Multan Sultans, led by Mohammad Rizwan, were one of the most consistent sides in the previous season, even making it to the finals. However, 2025 hasn’t started on the right note for them. They’ve lost both their opening games, the most recent being a 47-run defeat to Islamabad United. Despite Rizwan’s impressive form with the bat, the team has failed to translate individual brilliance into match-winning performances. With a powerful squad on paper, the Sultans would be hoping to bounce back strongly.
Peshawar Zalmi
Peshawar Zalmi are facing a similar slump. Led by Babar Azam, they too have lost both their games so far, including a heavy 102-run loss against Islamabad United. Zalmi’s bowling attack has looked out of rhythm, and their top-order batting has been inconsistent. While they have a good mix of youth and experience, the team is struggling to find balance and momentum.
Head-to-Head
The rivalry has clearly tilted in favour of Multan Sultans over the years. In 16 previous encounters, the Sultans have won 11 matches, while Zalmi have managed just five victories. In last season’s playoffs, Multan Sultans defeated Peshawar Zalmi, adding to their dominance in this fixture.
Key Players to Watch
Multan Sultans
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Mohammad Rizwan: With a century in the opening match and a solid 38 in the second, Rizwan is clearly in form and remains the biggest threat in the Multan batting lineup.
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Usama Mir: The leg-spinner has been effective, picking up 2 wickets so far, and with 24 wickets in the last season, he remains a vital cog in the Sultans’ bowling attack.
Peshawar Zalmi
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Babar Azam: Despite a slow start to the season, Babar remains Zalmi’s most reliable batter. His 569 runs last season prove his capability, and a big knock is due.
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Saim Ayub: One of the emerging stars, Ayub had a strong 2024 season and is capable of explosive starts at the top.
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Arif Yaqoob: Expected to return to the XI, Arif could be crucial for Zalmi with the ball, having shown consistency in earlier games.
Probable Playing XIs
Multan Sultans
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Shai Hope
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Usman Khan
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Kamran Ghulam
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Michael Bracewell
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Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk)
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Iftikhar Ahmed
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Shahid Aziz
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Usama Mir
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Chris Jordan
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Akif Javed
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David Willey
Peshawar Zalmi
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Saim Ayub
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Babar Azam (c)
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Tom Kohler-Cadmore
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Hussain Talat
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Mohammad Haris (wk)
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Max Bryant
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Mitchell Owen
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Sufiyan Muqeem
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Alzarri Joseph
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Mohammad Ali
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Arif Yaqoob
Pitch & Weather Report
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium has historically offered good support to batters, especially under lights. The surface is flat with some bounce, and dew in the second innings could be a factor. Interestingly, four of the last five games here have been won by teams batting first. Teams might look to put up a big score and defend.
The weather is expected to be clear with minimal chance of rain (5%). Temperatures will range between 20°C and 29°C.
Match Prediction
With both sides yet to secure a win this season, this match is crucial. Multan Sultans look slightly more settled with Rizwan in form and a stronger overall record in this fixture. Peshawar Zalmi have suffered heavy defeats and are yet to click as a unit. If their top order fails again, they could be in trouble.
Winning Chances:
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Multan Sultans: 58%
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Peshawar Zalmi: 42%