- May 8, 2025
With the 28th fixture of the 2025 Pakistan Super League upon us, Peshawar Zalmi meets a crucial match with possible playoff implications. Fans are lined up around the ground to purchase tickets to see this high-stakes match-up at the batting-friendly Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. As everyone knows, Zalmi have historically embraced young, aggressive, match-winning talent, so match-winners will be essential for these batting-friendly conditions in which chasing teams are often successful.
Batters
Saim Ayub
Saim Ayub is the most successful of the Zalmi top-order batters this season. To date, Ayub has only scored 119 runs in eight innings (with a fifty), so it is not a significant tally, but he plays the classic anchor role by bringing stability into the innings. His strike rate is 117.82, and while for some that may be considered a bit slow (about batting on the easier batting wicket). On a wicket like Rawalpindi, where the easiest opportunity to score typically comes at the later stages of the innings, Ayub’s inherent calmness and timing will likely be important in the final analysis.
Alongside him, Max Bryant brings firepower at the top. The Australian has only featured in three matches, but his strike rate 175.00 speaks volumes about his intent. His highest score of 38* came explosively, showcasing his ability to dominate attacks from the start. If Bryant finds his rhythm early, he can tear apart bowling lineups in the powerplay, giving Zalmi a flying start and setting the tone for the rest of the innings.
All-Rounders
Hussain Talat
Hussain Talat has been a great addition to Zalmi in PSL 2025. Having scored 193 runs and taken five wickets in eight matches, he provides the team with balance and depth. Talat bats in the middle order and is flexible enough to either put on partnerships or end innings, depending on what is required of him. Talat’s medium pace bowling is valuable for being economical to control the run rate and take important wickets during the middle overs.
Sadaqat, a fresh face from the recent PSL draft, has been a strong force, while only having the opportunity to play two games – he scored 55 runs and took two wickets in those games. His left-arm spin bowling could come in handy since it will only get more turn as the game goes on. With the bat, he provides depth in the lower-middle order, and he could also be incredibly impactful when entering in a pinch.
Bowlers
Luke Wood
Luke Wood has led the pace attack with nine wickets in six innings. His left-arm pace and ability to swing the ball make him especially dangerous in the powerplay. With a best of 3/28, Wood has consistently provided early breakthroughs, a key factor in setting the tone for Zalmi’s bowling innings.
Although he has only played two games, Abbas Afridi already has four victims, including a fantastic 3/17. With a good action, variations, and aggression in the death overs, he has the attributes to be successful. If Zalmi need a wicket, Afridi should be can be reliable and deliver under pressure.
With in-form batters, versatile all-rounders, and dangerous bowlers, Peshawar Zalmi has a strong lineup ready for battle. As they step onto the field in Rawalpindi, their key players will be the ones to watch in what promises to be a high-stakes, high-impact encounter.
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