Karachi Kings take on Islamabad United in Match 25 of the Pakistan Super League 2026 at Karachi, with both teams targeting a crucial win in the race for playoffs. With positions close on the table, this contest promises a tightly fought battle.
Match details
Venue: National Stadium, Karachi
Date: April 16, 2026
Time: 7:30 PM IST | 7:00 AM PST | 2:30 PM GMT
Team overviews
Karachi Kings have shown solid form this season, securing three wins in five matches. Led by Moeen Ali, they currently sit fourth on the table and will aim to strengthen their position with another victory. Their performances have been competitive, but consistency will be key moving forward.
Islamabad United are placed third with seven points and have displayed a balanced approach throughout the tournament. Under Chris Green’s leadership, they have combined steady batting with disciplined bowling. A win here could push them closer to the top two positions.
Key players
Sameer Minhas has been a standout performer for Islamabad United. With 207 runs in five matches, he has anchored innings and delivered in key situations, making him a vital asset.
For Karachi Kings, Hasan Ali has impressed with the ball. With nine wickets in four matches, his ability to strike regularly and apply pressure makes him a crucial factor in this contest.
Head-to-head record
Matches played: 24
Karachi Kings wins: 6
Islamabad United wins: 18
Islamabad United hold a dominant advantage in the head-to-head record.
Pitch report
The National Stadium in Karachi offers a balanced surface that supports both batters and bowlers. While batters can score quickly, bowlers who maintain discipline can extract assistance. The conditions reward teams that execute their plans effectively across both innings.
Probable playing XIs
Karachi Kings (Captain: Moeen Ali)
Reeza Hendricks, Muhammad Waseem, Salman Agha, Saad Baig, Azam Khan (wk), Moeen Ali (c), Khushdil Shah, Abbas Afridi, Hasan Ali, Adam Zampa, Ihsanullah
Islamabad United (Captain: Chris Green)
Devon Conway (wk), Sameer Minhas, Mohammad Faiq, Haider Ali, Mark Chapman, Imad Wasim, Faheem Ashraf, Chris Green (c), Richard Gleeson, Mehran Mumtaz, Salman Irshad
Probable match scenarios
If Karachi Kings bat first, they are likely to aim for a total between 155 and 165, focusing on building steady partnerships and accelerating late. Their bowlers will aim to defend through disciplined spells.
If Islamabad United bat first, they could target 160 to 170, relying on their in-form batting unit. Their bowlers will look to restrict scoring by maintaining tight lines and lengths.
The team bowling first may hold a slight advantage, based on recent trends.
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
Both teams appear evenly matched, with strengths in different areas. Karachi Kings have shown resilience, while Islamabad United hold a strong historical advantage and slightly better consistency. Given current form and balance, Islamabad United may have a marginal edge, although the match is expected to be closely contested and could be decided by key moments.
