In a thrilling start to the ninth match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10, Peshawar Zalmi won the toss and decided to set a target for Multan Sultans at the vibrant Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Friday. Both teams, hungry for their first victory of the season, are looking to turn their fortunes around after dropping their initial two games.
Early Struggles for Both Teams
Peshawar Zalmi, led by the dynamic Babar Azam, faced challenges in their batting lineup during chases against Quetta Gladiators and Islamabad United. Their struggles to build momentum while pursuing totals have put pressure on their top order to deliver a strong performance today.
Multan Sultans, who reached the finals in the previous season, have also stumbled early in PSL X. Narrow defeats against Karachi Kings and Islamabad United have left Mohammad Rizwan’s squad eager to rediscover their winning formula. With a balanced mix of international and domestic talent, the Sultans are poised to challenge Zalmi’s batting decision.
Key Players to Watch
Zalmi’s batting will rely heavily on Babar Azam’s elegance and Saim Ayub’s explosive potential at the top. Mohammad Haris, wielding wicketkeeping gloves, seeks to anchor the middle order with stability and flair in crucial moments. On the bowling front, Luke Wood and Alzari Joseph will be crucial in containing Multan’s dangerous hitters.
For Multan Sultans, Mohammad Rizwan’s leadership and batting prowess will be pivotal, alongside the flair of Shai Hope and the all-round contributions of Iftikhar Ahmed. David Willey and Usama Mir will lead the bowling attack, looking to exploit any early weaknesses in Zalmi’s lineup.
Team Lineups
Peshawar Zalmi’s XI, led by Babar Azam, blends youth and experience. Saim Ayub and Mohammad Haris add flair, while Tom Kohler-Cadmore and Hussain Talat provide stability. Mitch Owen, Abdul Samad, and pacers Luke Wood, Alzari Joseph, Arif Yaqoob, and Ali Raza bolster the attack.
Multan Sultans XI: Mohammad Rizwan (Captain & wk), Shai Hope, Usman Khan, Kamran Ghulam, Ashton Turner, Michael Bracewell, Iftikhar Ahmed, David Willey, Usama Mir, Akif Javed, Ubaid Shah
Match Outlook
With both teams desperate to climb the points table, this clash promises high-octane cricket under the Rawalpindi lights. Zalmi’s decision to bat first suggests confidence in their top order to post a competitive total, while Multan’s bowlers will aim to strike early and keep the score in check. Fans can expect a fierce battle as these two sides vie for their first win of PSL X.
