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A solid contest awaits as Peshawar Zalmi face Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
Both sides have had a different start to their campaign. Islamabad suffered a defeat in their opening game, while Peshawar started with a win and will look to carry that momentum forward.
Talking about Islamabad United, the three-time champions will be led by Shadab Khan, who will have the responsibility to take his side back on a winning track. With talented all-rounders like Faheem Ashraf and Waqas Hashim in the squad, the team can bounce back.
Peshawar Zalmi on the other hand are led by the experienced Babar Azam, and they will look to continue the momentum. The side last lifted the trophy in 2017 and will be aiming to end that wait this time around. With experienced players like Michael Bracewell and Iftikhar Ahmed, the team looks balanced and confident.
It sets up a good contest in Lahore. One team looking for a comeback, the other looking to build on a winning start.
IU vs PZ head-to-head
- Matches played: 26
- IU won: 13
- PZ won: 13
- Tie/No result: 0
IU vs PZ pitch report
The Gaddafi Stadium surface usually offers good support for batters. The ball comes nicely onto the bat and scoring becomes easier once players settle. There might be some help for pacers early on, but it does not last long. Spinners can be effective in the middle overs if they stay disciplined.
IU vs PZ key players
Michael Bracewell (PZ) – Michael Bracewell played a brilliant role in the high scoring chase in the last game. He will once again have a key responsibility with both bat and ball.
Sameer Minhas (IU) – Sameer Minhas, the 19-year-old shown glimpses of his talent in last game, scoring a fluent 28. With more chances coming his way, he will be aiming to convert these starts into something big.
Abdul Samad (PZ) – Abdul Samad is an explosive batter who can strike the ball cleanly and clear boundaries with ease. He will be crucial once again in the finishing role.
Faheem Ashraf (IU) – Faheem Ashraf is a reliable bowling all-rounder. With his medium pace and handy batting, he can turn the game in crucial moments.
IU vs PZ predicted playing XIs
Peshawar Zalmi: Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Haris, Kusal Mendis (wk), Aaron Hardie, Farhan Yousaf, Michael Bracewell, Abdul Samad, Aamer Jamal, Sufiyan Muqeem, Shoriful Islam, Ali Raza
Islamabad United: Andries Gous (wk), Devon Conway, Sameer Minhas, Shadab Khan (c), Mark Chapman, Haider Ali, Imad Wasim, Faheem Ashraf, Richard Gleeson, Salman Mirza, Salman Irshad
IU vs PZ match prediction
Given the kind of talent both teams have, it is not a one sided contest. Islamabad United have the ability to turn things around with the young players they have.
But looking at the current form and momentum, Peshawar Zalmi appear slightly ahead. With experienced players like Babar Azam and Michael Bracewell, they look more settled at this stage.
Prediction: Peshawar Zalmi to win
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