Peshawar Zalmi take on Islamabad United in Match 7 of Pakistan Super League 2026 as the action continues in Lahore. With both teams featuring strong batting line-ups and quality all-rounders, this clash is expected to be a high-scoring contest.
Match details
Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Date: March 31, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM PST, 2:00 PM GMT
Team overviews
Peshawar Zalmi, led by Babar Azam, enter this contest looking to find early consistency in the tournament. With a solid top order and multiple all-round options, Zalmi have the firepower to dominate on batting-friendly surfaces.
Islamabad United, captained by Shadab Khan, come in as one of the most balanced sides in PSL 2026. With a strong mix of international stars and local performers, United will aim to control the game through their all-round depth.
Key players
For Peshawar, Babar Azam remains the backbone of the batting lineup, while players like Mohammad Haris and Kusal Mendis can provide aggressive starts. All-rounders such as Aamer Jamal and Michael Bracewell add depth.
Islamabad United will rely on Shadab Khan’s all-round abilities, while Devon Conway and Haider Ali are key contributors with the bat. Bowlers like Mohammad Hasnain and Imad Wasim bring variety to the attack.
Head-to-head record
Peshawar Zalmi and Islamabad United have shared a competitive rivalry over the years. Islamabad, being one of the most successful franchises, have often had the edge, but Zalmi have consistently challenged them in crucial encounters.
Pitch report
The surface at Gaddafi Stadium continues to favor batters, offering good bounce and carry. Stroke play becomes easier under lights, making it ideal for high totals.
Pacers may find some assistance early on, but conditions usually become better for batting as the match progresses. Spinners will play a containing role. A score between 175 and 190 is considered competitive at this venue.
Probable match scenarios
Teams may prefer chasing, considering the dew factor in night games at Lahore. A strong start in the powerplay will be crucial, especially with both sides having aggressive top orders.
Death overs could decide the outcome, with both teams having powerful finishers capable of shifting momentum quickly.
Probable playing XIs
Peshawar Zalmi (Captain: Babar Azam)
Babar Azam, Mohammad Haris (wk), Kusal Mendis, Saim Ayub/Tanzid Hasan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Aamer Jamal, Michael Bracewell, Khalid Usman, Shahnawaz Dahani, Sufiyan Muqeem, Khurram Shahzad
Islamabad United (Captain: Shadab Khan)
Devon Conway (wk), Andries Gous, Haider Ali, Mark Chapman, Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Hasnain, Richard Gleeson, Mehran Mumtaz, Salman Irshad
Live streaming and broadcast
Pakistan: A Sports, PTV Sports, Tamasha app, Daraz app
India: Sony Sports Network, Sony LIV
UK: Sky Sports Cricket, Sky Go
Australia: Fox Sports, Kayo Sports
Global: PSL official broadcast partners and digital platforms
Match prediction
Islamabad United appear slightly ahead due to their strong all-round depth and experienced bowling unit. However, Peshawar Zalmi’s batting, led by Babar Azam, is capable of dominating if they get a good start.
If Islamabad’s bowlers manage early breakthroughs, they could control the game. But if Zalmi’s top order fires, this could turn into a high-scoring thriller.
