Peshawar Zalmi take on Multan Sultans in a top-of-the-table clash in Match 22 of the Pakistan Super League 2026 at Karachi. Both teams have started strongly, making this encounter crucial in the race for early dominance.
Match details
Venue: National Stadium, Karachi
Date: April 13, 2026
Time: 7:30 PM IST | 7:00 AM PST | 2:30 PM GMT
Team overviews
Peshawar Zalmi have been the standout side in the tournament so far. Led by Babar Azam, they remain unbeaten with four wins in five matches, while one game ended without a result. Their consistency in both batting and bowling has placed them at the top of the table.
Multan Sultans have also enjoyed a strong campaign, winning four out of five matches. Their only defeat came in a shortened game against Lahore Qalandars. Under Ashton Turner, the team has displayed depth and balance, positioning themselves just behind Zalmi in the standings.
Key players
Kusal Mendis has been a key performer for Peshawar Zalmi. With 241 runs in four matches at an impressive strike rate, his aggressive approach at the top has consistently provided strong starts.
For Zalmi’s bowling unit, Sufiyan Muqeem has been exceptional. As one of the leading wicket-takers in the tournament, his ability to strike regularly and maintain control makes him a major threat.
For Multan Sultans, Sahibzada Farhan continues to provide solid starts, while their experienced bowling lineup adds stability in crucial phases.
Head-to-head record
Matches played: 18
Peshawar Zalmi wins: 7
Multan Sultans wins: 11
Multan Sultans hold the advantage historically, having won more encounters between the two sides.
Pitch report
The National Stadium in Karachi has produced balanced conditions in PSL 2026. The average first-innings score stands around 173, indicating competitive totals. Both batting first and chasing have yielded similar success rates, although captains tend to prefer chasing due to consistent pitch behavior throughout the match.
Probable playing XIs
Peshawar Zalmi (Captain: Babar Azam)
Mohammad Haris, Babar Azam (c), Kusal Mendis (wk), Michael Bracewell, Abdul Samad, Farhan Yousaf, Iftikhar Ahmed, Aamer Jamal, Sufiyan Muqeem, Shoriful Islam, Nahid Rana
Multan Sultans (Captain: Ashton Turner)
Sahibzada Farhan, Steven Smith, Josh Philippe (wk), Shan Masood, Ashton Turner (c), Arafat Minhas, Mohammad Nawaz, Peter Siddle, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Muhammad Ismail, Faisal Akram
Probable match scenarios
If Peshawar Zalmi bat first, they are likely to aim for a total between 180 and 190, relying on their strong top order and finishing ability. Their bowlers will then look to defend using disciplined variations.
If Multan Sultans bat first, they could target a score in the 175 to 185 range, focusing on building partnerships and accelerating in the final overs. Their experienced bowling attack will aim to control the chase.
The chasing side may have a slight advantage based on recent trends at the venue.
Live streaming and broadcast
India: Not available on official TV broadcast
Pakistan: A Sports, PTV Sports, Daraz app
United Kingdom: Sky Sports, streaming platforms
Australia: Fox Sports, Kayo Sports
Global: Official PSL streaming partners and regional broadcasters
Match prediction
This contest features two in-form teams with minimal separating them. Peshawar Zalmi hold the edge in current momentum and remain unbeaten, while Multan Sultans have a stronger head-to-head record. The outcome may depend on execution under pressure and adaptability to match conditions. With both sides evenly matched, the team chasing is likely to have a slight advantage, making this a finely balanced encounter.
