Multan Sultans take on Hyderabad Kingsmen in Eliminator 1 of PSL 2026 with a place in the next knockout round at stake. Both teams enter this clash with momentum and will look to deliver under pressure in this do-or-die encounter.
Match details
Venue: Gaddafi Stadium
Date: April 29, 2026
Time: 7:30 PM IST | 7:00 PM PKT | 2:30 PM GMT
Team overviews
Multan Sultans finished third on the points table with six wins from ten matches. Led by Ashton Turner, they have displayed consistency throughout the tournament. However, their recent loss against Hyderabad Kingsmen will be fresh in memory, and they will aim to bounce back strongly in this crucial knockout fixture.
Hyderabad Kingsmen, captained by Marnus Labuschagne, had a slow start but peaked at the right time. Their late surge into the playoffs reflects improved team balance and confidence. They will look to build on their recent success and continue their winning run.
Key players
Multan Sultans will rely on Steven Smith, who has been their standout performer with 367 runs in the tournament. His ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed makes him a vital asset in high-pressure matches.
On the bowling front, Mohammad Wasim Jr will be key with the new ball and in the death overs, providing crucial breakthroughs.
For Hyderabad Kingsmen, Usman Khan and Glenn Maxwell add firepower to the batting lineup, while Mohammad Ali has been highly effective with the ball, picking up wickets at crucial intervals.
Head-to-head record
The rivalry between the two sides remains evenly balanced. In their two meetings so far, both teams have won one match each, including Hyderabad Kingsmen’s recent victory over Multan Sultans earlier in the season.
Pitch report
The pitch at Gaddafi Stadium has largely favoured batters in PSL 2026, with several high-scoring matches played at the venue. The surface offers good pace and bounce, allowing batters to play their shots freely. However, bowlers who maintain disciplined lines and lengths can still extract assistance and make an impact. Chasing teams have generally enjoyed better success.
Probable playing XIs
Multan Sultans:
Sahibzada Farhan, Steven Smith, Josh Philippe (WK), Shan Masood, Arafat Minhas, Ashton Turner (C), Mohammad Imran Randhawa, Peter Siddle, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Muhammad Ismail, Faisal Akram
Hyderabad Kingsmen:
Maaz Sadaqat, Marnus Labuschagne (C), Saim Ayub, Usman Khan (WK), Kusal Perera, Glenn Maxwell, Irfan Khan, Hassan Khan, Hunain Shah, Mohammad Ali, Akif Javed
Probable match scenarios
Given the batting-friendly conditions, this contest could turn into a high-scoring affair. Multan Sultans may look to set a strong total if they bat first, relying on their experienced top order. Hyderabad Kingsmen, on the other hand, have shown composure while chasing and could prefer to bowl first. Early wickets and control in the middle overs will be decisive factors.
Live streaming and broadcast
Pakistan: A Sports HD, PTV Sports, Tapmad, Tamasha app
India: Not officially available
UK: Sky Sports Cricket, Sky Go
Australia: Fox Sports, Kayo Sports
Global: Official PSL broadcasters and digital streaming platforms in respective regions
Match prediction
This encounter appears evenly matched, with both teams having strengths across departments. Multan Sultans possess experience and stability, while Hyderabad Kingsmen bring momentum and confidence into the game. Considering recent form, Hyderabad Kingsmen may hold a slight edge, but the outcome could depend heavily on the toss and execution under pressure. Expect a closely fought contest, with the chasing side likely to have the advantage.
