Lahore Qalandars will look to continue their strong run when they face Islamabad United in Match 16 of the Pakistan Super League. Islamabad United, meanwhile, aim to extend their winning momentum after bouncing back from an early defeat.
Match details
Venue: National Stadium
Date: April 09, 2026
Time: 3:30 PM IST | 3:00 PM PST | 10:30 AM GMT
Team overviews
Lahore Qalandars have enjoyed an impressive campaign so far, winning two of their three matches. Led by Shaheen Afridi, the team has displayed strong performances across departments. Their recent win against Multan Sultans highlighted their batting depth and bowling strength, making them one of the in-form sides in the tournament.
Islamabad United had a slow start but have recovered well with back-to-back victories. Under the leadership of Shadab Khan, they currently sit among the top teams. Their balanced lineup and improved performances make them a strong contender in this fixture.
Key players
For Lahore Qalandars, Mohammad Naeem has been in excellent form, scoring quick runs at the top. Fakhar Zaman and Abdullah Shafique will play crucial roles in stabilizing and accelerating the innings. With the ball, Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf lead a dangerous pace attack.
Islamabad United will rely on Sameer Minhas, who has been among the top scorers this season. Captain Shadab Khan contributes with both bat and ball, while Salman Irshad has impressed with consistent wicket-taking performances.
Head-to-head record
Lahore Qalandars hold a dominant record in recent encounters, winning eight of the last ten matches against Islamabad United. This gives them a psychological edge heading into the contest.
Pitch report
The surface at National Stadium is known to favor batters, allowing free stroke play. However, spinners also play a significant role, accounting for a majority of wickets. Teams chasing have had more success here, with a higher win percentage when bowling first. An average first-innings score of around 175 suggests a competitive total.
Probable playing XIs
Lahore Qalandars (Captain: Shaheen Afridi):
Mohammad Naeem, Parvez Hossain Emon, Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Haseebullah Khan (wk), Sikandar Raza, Asif Ali, Shaheen Afridi (c), Haris Rauf, Mustafizur Rahman, Ubaid Shah
Islamabad United (Captain: Shadab Khan):
Devon Conway (wk), Sameer Minhas, Mohammad Faiq, Haider Ali, Mark Chapman, Shadab Khan (c), Faheem Ashraf, Imad Wasim, Chris Green, Richard Gleeson, Salman Irshad
Probable match scenarios
If Islamabad United bat first, they are likely to post a total between 160 and 180. Lahore’s strong batting lineup could chase it down, given their current form.
If Lahore Qalandars bat first, they will target a score around 180 to 200. Their pace attack can then defend effectively by applying pressure in the powerplay and death overs.
Live streaming and broadcast
Pakistan: A Sports (TV), Tapmad, YouTube (official streams where available)
India: FanCode app and website
UK: Sky Sports Cricket, Sky Go
Australia: Fox Sports, Kayo Sports
Global: Official PSL broadcasting partners and digital platforms depending on region
Match prediction
Lahore Qalandars enter the match with better form, a dominant head-to-head record, and a more explosive batting lineup. Islamabad United have shown resilience, but Lahore’s overall balance and pace attack give them the edge. Lahore Qalandars are favorites to win this encounter.
