- Tue, March 15, 2022
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MUL vs ISL PSL 2025: Islamabad United Aim to Extend Dominance Over Out-of-Form Multan Sultans
Match 13 of the Pakistan Super League 2025 sees Islamabad United facing off against the struggling Multan Sultans at the Multan Cricket Stadium. With one team soaring at the top of the table and the other clinging on at the bottom, the upcoming clash promises to be as much a battle of form as it is of firepower.
Multan Sultans vs Islamabad United is shaping up to be a pivotal fixture. Islamabad United are unbeaten so far, having won four out of four, while Multan Sultans have managed just one victory and are desperate to turn their campaign around. The contrast between the teams is clear in the points table Islamabad enjoys a net run rate of +2.544, whereas Multan struggles with a concerning -1.790.
Pitch and Weather Conditions at Multan Cricket Stadium
The Multan pitch, based on the only game played here so far in PSL 2025, offers plenty to the batters. That match saw over 400 runs scored across both innings, indicating a surface with true bounce and generous carry. Expect a batting-friendly wicket again, with the average first-innings total likely hovering in the 180–200 range. The weather forecast shows a dry and warm evening, so dew could become a factor in the second innings.
Head-to-Head: Balanced but Tense Rivalry
The head-to-head stats add a layer of unpredictability to the MUL vs ISL PSL 2025 narrative. In 17 past encounters, Islamabad United have a slight edge with nine wins to Multan Sultans' eight. Their most recent clash on April 16 ended in Islamabad’s favour, showcasing the gulf in current form. Multan will have to dig deep and rely on home conditions to even the score.
Multan Sultans’ Top Order Must Fire
For Multan Sultans, the key lies in their top order. Captain Mohammad Rizwan has been relatively quiet by his standards, placing extra responsibility on Usman Khan, who has looked solid. With a strike rate of 164.19 across four innings, Usman has been Multan’s best batter this season and is expected to shoulder the load once again. In fantasy combinations, Usman is a must-have.
Support from the middle order, particularly from Michael Bracewell and Ashton Turner, will be crucial. Iftikhar Ahmed’s finishing ability remains vital, especially if Multan is to chase a steep target or close out a strong first innings.
Their bowling attack, featuring David Willey, Usama Mir, and the young Ubaid Shah, has had its moments but has struggled for consistency. Playing at home, they’ll be looking for early wickets to put pressure on an in-form Islamabad lineup.
Islamabad United’s Depth and Balance Leading the Way
Islamabad United have arguably been the most balanced side in PSL 2025. Their top order, featuring Sahibzada Farhan, Azam Khan, and Colin Munro, has been in excellent touch. Shadab Khan continues to add value as both captain and all-rounder, while Jason Holder and Imad Wasim have delivered with the ball.
Imad Wasim, in particular, stands out as the probable best bowler in this match. He’s not only been economical but also chipped in with key breakthroughs, making him a top fantasy pick. Add to that the pace threat of Naseem Shah and Ben Dwarshuis, and Islamabad have a bowling lineup capable of defending any total or restricting any side.
Dream XI Fantasy Game Strategy and High-Probability Picks
For fantasy cricket players, this MUL vs ISL PSL 2025 matchup presents some interesting options. Usman Khan and Azam Khan are reliable top-order picks based on their strike rate and form. Imad Wasim, with his all-round impact, becomes an ideal captain or vice-captain option.
If you’re picking a balanced Dream XI, combining Multan’s top three with Islamabad’s middle-order stalwarts and a heavy dose of ISL bowlers could yield the best return. Don’t overlook Jason Holder either his knack for late-order hitting and tight overs in the death can provide crucial fantasy points.
Probable Playing XIs
Multan Sultans: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Shai Hope (wk), Usman Khan, Kamran Ghulam, Michael Bracewell, Ashton Turner, Iftikhar Ahmed, David Willey, Usama Mir, Ubaid Shah, Akif Javed.
Islamabad United: Sahibzada Farhan, Azam Khan (wk), Colin Munro, Shadab Khan (c), Mohammad Nawaz, Muhammad Shahzad, Haider Ali, Jason Holder, Imad Wasim, Ben Dwarshuis, Naseem Shah.
Score Prediction and Match Scenarios
Scenario 1: Multan Sultans win the toss and bowl first. Expect Islamabad to post around 165–185 depending on their start. If Multan can contain the powerplay, they have a shot at chasing it down and winning their second match.
Scenario 2: Islamabad United win the toss and field first. Multan might go harder in the powerplay and put up a competitive 180–200, but Islamabad’s consistent middle order and deep bowling options might be enough to seal another win.
Based on form and momentum, Islamabad United remain the favorites. But if Usman Khan gets going and the Multan bowlers strike early, an upset is on the cards.
Interesting Stats and Match Facts
Usman Khan’s 164+ strike rate makes him one of the top three fastest scorers this season.
Imad Wasim has an economy rate below 6.5 in PSL 2025 and has picked up wickets in all his appearances.
Islamabad United are one of only two unbeaten teams this season.
Multan’s bowling average this season is the second-worst in the league.
Conclusion: Can Multan Sultans Reignite Their Campaign?
The MUL vs ISL PSL 2025 clash is not just a contest of bat and ball; it’s a test of belief and execution. Multan Sultans, reeling from early setbacks, have the home crowd and surface in their favor. Islamabad United, though, bring a juggernaut of form, depth, and confidence.
Fantasy players should build lineups around Islamabad’s consistency but leave room for Usman Khan and Rizwan’s class to shine through. As the tournament progresses, every match shapes the playoff picture, and this one might just be the turning point for Multan or another step in Islamabad’s dream run.
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