PSL Match Prediction | Pakistan Super League  2025 | Peshawar Zalmi vs Lahore Qalandars | Match 29 | May 18 – Can PZ Triumph Over LQ to Strengthen Playoff Hopes?

PZ vs LQ Match Analysis

Match 29 between Lahore Qalandars and Peshawar Zalmi is set to be a pivotal encounter in the league’s final stretch. Scheduled for Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the iconic Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, this match holds significant implications for both teams’ playoff aspirations.

Lahore Qalandars have shown resilience throughout the season, while Peshawar Zalmi have been gaining momentum with recent victories. With the stakes high, this match promises intense competition as the race to the playoffs intensifies.

PZ vs LQ Team Preview & Squads

Peshawar Zalmi

Peshawar Zalmi’s journey through the 2025 Pakistan Super League (PSL) has been a testament to resilience and adaptability. After a shaky start, including a significant 80-run loss to Quetta Gladiators in their opening match, the team found its footing with a record-breaking 120-run victory over Multan Sultans, marking the largest margin of victory by runs in PSL history. This turnaround was propelled by standout performances from players like Abdul Samad, who scored a rapid 40, and bowlers Ali Raza and Arif Yaqoob, who dismantled Multan’s batting lineup with figures of 4/21 and 3/20, respectively.

The batting lineup has been anchored by captain Babar Azam, whose consistent performances include an unbeaten 56 against Lahore Qalandars, leading the team to a comfortable seven-wicket win. Emerging talent Maaz Sadaqat also made a significant impact, scoring 55 runs in a crucial six-wicket victory over Islamabad United. The return of Saim Ayub from injury has bolstered the top order, providing explosive starts alongside Babar. Despite the mid-season departure of key overseas players like Corbin Bosch and Mitchell Owen to the IPL, the team has effectively integrated replacements such as George Linde and Luke Wood, maintaining the squad’s competitiveness.

PZ’s bowling attack has been equally formidable, with Mohammad Ali delivering a standout performance of 3/26 against Islamabad United. The inclusion of Alzarri Joseph has added pace and aggression to the bowling unit, while Luke Wood’s left-arm seam provides variety and control. This balanced combination of seasoned internationals and emerging local talent positions Zalmi as a formidable contender as they aim to secure a playoff spot and vie for their first PSL title since 2017.

Peshawar Zalmi Squads 

Peshawar Zalmi

Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Sufiyan Muqeem, Alzarri Joseph, George Linde, Mohammad Haris, Ahmed Daniyal, Max Bryant, Babar Azam, Nahid Rana, Arif Yaqoob, Luke Wood, Mohammad Ali, Abdul Samad, Hussain Talat, Corbin Bosch, Maaz Sadaqat, Mehran Mumtaz, Najibullah Zadran, Ali Raza, Mitchell Owen, Saim Ayub

Lahore Qalandars

The Lahore Qalandars have experienced a rollercoaster ride in the 2025 Pakistan Super League (PSL), showcasing moments of brilliance interspersed with challenges. After a lackluster previous season, the team began this year with renewed vigor, securing impressive victories, including a commanding 88-run win over Islamabad United, which ended United’s ten-match unbeaten streak. However, inconsistency has plagued their campaign, evident in their recent narrow defeat to Karachi Kings, where despite posting a formidable 160 in a rain-shortened match, they succumbed to a late onslaught by Irfan Khan.

Key players have been instrumental in LQ’s performances. Fakhar Zaman has been a linchpin at the top order, amassing 186 runs with a striking rate of 163.15, including a notable 76-run innings against Karachi Kings. Daryl Mitchell’s contributions in the middle order have provided stability, with his 75-run knock complementing Fakhar’s efforts in the same match. Sikandar Raza has emerged as a versatile asset, delivering both with the bat and ball, highlighted by his 52-run innings in a challenging match against Peshawar Zalmi.

On the bowling front, the Qalandars have relied heavily on their pace attack. Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf have been spearheading the bowling department, with Afridi’s early breakthroughs setting the tone in several matches. However, the spin department has lacked depth, with Rishad Hossain being the primary spinner, indicating a potential area for reinforcement. As the league progresses, Lahore’s ability to harness its strengths and address vulnerabilities will be crucial in its quest for a playoff berth.

Lahore Qalandars Squads 

Lahore Qalandars

Muhammad Naeem, Abdullah Shafique, David Wiese, Fakhar Zaman, Rishad Hossain, Kusal Perera, Jahandad Khan, Muhammad Akhlaq, Tom Curran, Momin Qamar, Sam Billings, Asif Ali, Haris Rauf, Zaman Khan, Daryl Mitchell, Mohammad Azab, Sikandar Raza, Asif Afridi, Shaheen Shah Afridi      

Peshawar Zalmi vs Lahore Qalandars outfield report 

Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi

The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is renowned for its batting-friendly surface, especially in T20 matches. Historically, first-innings scores have ranged between 180 to 200 runs, with a par score around 190. The weather in Rawalpindi on May 18 is expected to be clear and hot, with daytime temperatures reaching up to 110°F (43°C) and nighttime lows around 76°F (24°C). Humidity levels will be low, and there is no significant chance of rain, ensuring uninterrupted play.

Considering the pitch conditions and the potential for dew in the second innings, the team winning the toss is likely to opt for bowling first. This strategy has been favored in recent matches at this venue to capitalize on the chasing advantage under lights.

PZ vs LQ Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches 

In their last 5 matches, PZ won 3 games and LQ won just one. 

Peshawar Zalmi vs Lahore Qalandars Prediction 

Cricket analysts predict that Lahore Qalandars have a 51% chance of winning.

Disclaimer: This cricket prediction is based on the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.