LQ vs QG | Preview, Playing XI, Dream11 Fantasy Tips, Pitch Report, Weather Forecast, Winning Prediction

Lahore Qalandars vs Quetta Gladiators, PSL 2025 – Match Preview, Playing XI, Pitch Report, Dream11 Fantasy Picks & Match Prediction

As the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 heats up, all eyes now turn to the 4th match of the season between Lahore Qalandars and Quetta Gladiators. Scheduled to be played on April 13 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, this fixture promises to be an enthralling battle. With Lahore Qalandars eager to bounce back after a disappointing start and Quetta Gladiators riding high on their commanding win in their first game, the stakes couldn't be higher.

A Clash of Contrasts: Lahore Qalandars Look to Recover as Quetta Gladiators Eye Momentum

Both Lahore Qalandars and Quetta Gladiators have taken different routes coming into this match. Lahore Qalandars were handed an 8-wicket thrashing by Islamabad United in their opening game, exposing their batting frailties and bowling vulnerabilities. Meanwhile, Quetta Gladiators started their PSL 2025 campaign in style with a clinical 80-run victory against Peshawar Zalmi. That win was spearheaded by the magic of leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed and the aggressive batting of Finn Allen.

With Lahore desperate to avoid back-to-back losses and Quetta determined to build on their winning momentum, the Rawalpindi crowd can expect a contest filled with intensity, strategy, and possibly, some individual brilliance.

Rawalpindi Stadium Pitch Report: Paradise for Bowlers, Test for Batters

Traditionally, the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium has favored bowlers in T20 cricket. The surface has offered enough for both seamers and spinners, making scoring tricky for batters who fail to rotate strike. In the first innings, batting seems easier under the lights, but chasing has proven difficult, especially as the pitch tends to slow down.

Batters aiming to flourish here must capitalize on the Powerplay and adapt quickly during the middle overs. Bowlers, on the other hand, who can maintain tight lines and mix their pace will reap the rewards.

Weather Forecast: A Clear Night for Cricket

Fortunately for both teams and fans, the weather in Rawalpindi looks perfect for cricket. Clear skies are expected with no chance of rain. The temperature is likely to hover around 24-26°C during match time, providing ideal playing conditions.

Head-to-Head Record: Nothing Separates Lahore and Quetta

This rivalry is one of the most balanced in PSL history. Both Lahore Qalandars and Quetta Gladiators have won 9 matches each in their 18 encounters so far. Their previous meeting saw Quetta getting the better of Lahore by 6 wickets in 2024. This deadlock only adds more spice to an already exciting fixture.

Predicted Playing XI for Lahore Qalandars vs Quetta Gladiators

Lahore Qalandars Probable XI:

Fakhar Zaman, Muhammad Naeem, Abdullah Shafique, Daryl Mitchell, Sam Billings (wk), Sikandar Raza, Jahandad Khan, David Wiese, Shaheen Afridi (c), Haris Rauf, Asif Afridi.

Quetta Gladiators Probable XI:

Finn Allen, Saud Shakeel (c), Hasan Nawaz, Rilee Rossouw, Kusal Mendis (wk), Shoaib Malik, Faheem Ashraf, Kyle Jamieson, Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Amir, Usman Tariq.

Players to Watch: Dream11 Fantasy Tips

Most Probable Top Batter: Finn Allen

Finn Allen is arguably the most dangerous batter on display in this contest. His explosive 53 off 25 balls in the last match showcased his clean hitting ability and fearless approach at the top. The Kiwi opener is known for attacking from the word go, and if he settles in, Lahore's bowlers will have a hard time stopping him.

Most Probable Best Bowler: Abrar Ahmed

Abrar Ahmed has been a revelation in T20 cricket with his deceptive variations and wicket-taking ability. His 4/42 in the previous match has already sent a warning signal to the rest of the teams. On a pitch like Rawalpindi's, where spinners can thrive, Abrar could well be the game-changer again.

Score Prediction: Likely Totals at Rawalpindi Stadium

Scenario 1: If Lahore Qalandars Bat First
Powerplay Score: 50-60/2
Total Score: 170-175
Winning Prediction: Quetta Gladiators to win

Scenario 2: If Quetta Gladiators Bat First
Powerplay Score: 55-65/1
Total Score: 190-195
Winning Prediction: Quetta Gladiators to win

Winning Prediction: Quetta Gladiators Favorites to Continue Momentum

Given their current form and balanced playing XI, Quetta Gladiators have a slight edge over Lahore Qalandars in this fixture. The combination of Finn Allen’s aggressive batting and Abrar Ahmed’s match-winning spells makes Quetta a formidable unit. Lahore Qalandars, though talented, will need significant improvements in both departments to challenge Quetta effectively.

Predicted Winner: Quetta Gladiators (60% Probability)

Lahore Qalandars can turn the tables only if Fakhar Zaman or Abdullah Shafique deliver a solid top-order performance backed by their pace attack led by Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf.

Interesting Facts to Know Before the Match

1. Lahore Qalandars and Quetta Gladiators have an identical head-to-head record (9 wins each) in PSL history.

2. Finn Allen’s strike rate in T20 cricket exceeds 160, making him one of the most destructive openers.

3. Abrar Ahmed was the Player of the Match in Quetta’s last game for his four-wicket haul.

4. Fakhar Zaman has scored over 2000 runs in PSL history, but has struggled recently against spin.

5. The Rawalpindi pitch has historically favored bowlers, with an average first-innings score between 160-170.