Peshawar Zalmi vs Islamabad United, PSL 2025: Match Prediction, Pitch Report & Playing XI

Islamabad United vs Peshawar Zalmi, PSL 2025: A Classic Rivalry Renewed at Rawalpindi Stadium

When Islamabad United and Peshawar Zalmi step onto the field for the 5th match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on April 14, it won’t just be another regular league fixture. It will be a clash of rich PSL history, two evenly matched sides, and an early chance to stamp authority in the tournament. Both teams have enjoyed similar head-to-head records in the past, but their current campaigns tell a very different story.

Islamabad United riding high after clinical start

Islamabad United could not have asked for a better start to their PSL 2025 campaign. Their emphatic 8-wicket win over Lahore Qalandars has already sent a clear message to the rest of the league. Spearheaded by their skipper Shadab Khan and backed by a balanced squad, United seem to have found their early rhythm.

With a bowling unit capable of dismantling any batting line-up and a flexible batting order led by explosive hitters like Colin Munro and Azam Khan, Islamabad is currently a team brimming with confidence. Their spin attack, especially on the bowler-friendly surface of Rawalpindi, makes them favorites heading into this game.

Peshawar Zalmi desperate to bounce back from early blow

On the other hand, Peshawar Zalmi's campaign started in the worst possible fashion. An 80-run hammering by Quetta Gladiators has left Babar Azam’s side searching for answers. Their bowling attack failed to contain the runs, while their batters barring Saim Ayub struggled to chase a mammoth total of 217.

But writing off Zalmi early in the tournament is a risky move. Babar Azam, one of the finest batters in world cricket, alongside rising star Saim Ayub, still offers a huge threat. And with international names like Alzarri Joseph and Mohammad Haris in their ranks, Zalmi still have the firepower to stage a comeback.

Rawalpindi Pitch Report: A Challenge for Batters

The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium has a reputation for being a bowler’s paradise in the PSL, especially for spinners and seamers who know how to use the conditions. In the opening match of PSL 2025 here, Quetta Gladiators posted 216 and Peshawar Zalmi fell well short. It was evident that chasing big scores on this surface can be a daunting task.

Captains winning the toss will likely prefer to bat first, put a big score on the board, and let their bowlers exploit the conditions under lights.

Head-to-Head: The Battle So Far

In PSL history, Islamabad United and Peshawar Zalmi have played 25 matches against each other. It's rare to find such a balanced rivalry with both teams securing 12 wins each and one game ending with no result. This even record adds another layer of excitement to the upcoming match.

Interestingly, Islamabad United defeated Peshawar Zalmi in their last meeting in 2024, adding to the psychological edge they might hold going into this match.

Predicted Playing XI: PES vs ISL

Both teams have depth in their line-ups, with Islamabad United possibly fielding the same side that beat Lahore Qalandars, while Peshawar Zalmi will hope for better performances from their bowlers.

Islamabad United (Probable XI)

Sahibzada Farhan, Andries Gous, Colin Munro, Agha Salman, Azam Khan (wk), Muhammad Shahzad, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan (c), Jason Holder, Riley Meredith, Naseem Shah

Peshawar Zalmi (Probable XI)

Babar Azam (c), Saim Ayub, Mohammad Haris (wk), Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Hussain Talat, Max Bryant, Mitchell Owen, Alzarri Joseph, Mohammad Ali, Sufiyan Muqeem, Ali Raza

Key Players to Watch Out For

Saim Ayub – Peshawar Zalmi's Main Hope

In an otherwise disappointing outing against Quetta, Saim Ayub stood tall, scoring a fluent 50 off 38 balls. His ability to tackle both spin and pace makes him the biggest asset in Zalmi’s batting order. Ayub’s performance will be crucial if Peshawar hopes to set or chase a competitive total.

Shadab Khan – The Spin Wizard of Islamabad United

Shadab Khan continues to be Islamabad’s game-changer. His figures of 3/25 against Lahore showed his ability to pick up crucial wickets in the middle overs. On the spin-friendly Rawalpindi track, he could prove to be Peshawar's biggest nightmare.

Pitch Conditions and Weather Report

Expect another typical Rawalpindi surface slow, low, and assisting spin. The average first-innings score here hovers around 165-170, but Islamabad managed to defend 216 easily in the opening match of the season.

There’s no forecast for rain, and the weather is expected to stay pleasant, aiding full 40-over action.

PES vs ISL Match Prediction

Based on recent form, pitch conditions, and the balance of the sides, Islamabad United appear to have a clear edge over Peshawar Zalmi. However, if Babar Azam or Saim Ayub get going, Zalmi can pose a serious threat.

Scenario 1: If Peshawar Zalmi Bat First

• Powerplay Score: 45 to 55/2

• Total Score: 155 to 160

• Winning Prediction: Islamabad United likely to win

Scenario 2: If Islamabad United Bat First

• Powerplay Score: 60 to 65/1

• Total Score: 180 to 185

• Winning Prediction: Islamabad United likely to win