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PSL 2025 Rawalpindi Preview: Six-Storm Brewing as Quetta Face Lahore, United Lock Horns with Zalmi

The PSL caravan halts at Rawalpindi this weekend for two blockbuster matchups that promise high scores, fiery rivalries, and potential season-defining performances. Quetta Gladiators take on Lahore Qalandars in a clash of contrasting momentum, while Islamabad United go head-to-head with Peshawar Zalmi, both teams chasing consistency and early dominance.

As fans gear up for big hits and thrilling finishes, fantasy league managers will also be strategizing for maximum points. Here’s a comprehensive preview, complete with form guides, match conditions, player insights — and curated Fantasy XI suggestions.

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Match 4: Quetta Gladiators vs Lahore Qalandars

Date: Sunday, 13 April
Time: 4:00 PM PST
Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
Broadcast: Live on Sky Sports

Form Guide & Context

Quetta Gladiators burst onto the scene with a dominant opening performance, blasting 216 runs in their first game. Their aggressive batting unit, led by the likes of Jason Roy and Saud Shakeel, complemented by depth in the middle order and an efficient bowling attack, makes them a side to watch.

Lahore Qalandars, in contrast, are in free fall. With 9 defeats in their last 10 games, their confidence is shaken. The absence of Rashid Khan has deeply affected their control in the middle overs. Fakhar Zaman, their marquee batter, continues to struggle with form and pressure.

Pitch Watch:
Rawalpindi offers a belter of a pitch. Expect another high-scoring affair with a flat surface, minimal swing, and short square boundaries.

Players to Watch

Jason Roy (Quetta) – Starts fast and has a strong record on flat decks.

Saud Shakeel (Quetta) – Anchors the innings and turns starts into 70+ scores.

Mohammad Wasim Jr (Quetta) – An underrated death bowler with variations.

Shaheen Afridi (Lahore) – Can strike early, but may be expensive at the death.

Sikandar Raza (Lahore) – All-round value and can turn the game with bat or ball.

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Fantasy XI for Match 4

Captain: Jason Roy
Vice-Captain: Sikandar Raza

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Match 5: Islamabad United vs Peshawar Zalmi

Date: Monday, 14 April
Time: 4:00 PM PST
Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
Broadcast: Live on Sky Sports

Form Guide & Context

Islamabad United started strong with a convincing win over Lahore. With a solid top order, a dynamic middle order, and a pace attack led by Naseem Shah and Faheem Ashraf, they appear well-balanced and dangerous.

Peshawar Zalmi, led by Babar Azam, faced a reality check against Quetta. Their bowling lacked bite, and their batting depth will be tested again — especially if Babar doesn’t fire. That said, Pindi is a ground where Babar has previously flourished.

Players to Watch

Babar Azam (Peshawar) – Looking to bounce back after a duck; historically consistent in PSL.

Alex Hales (Islamabad) – Destructive in the powerplay and dangerous on flat decks.

Faheem Ashraf (Islamabad) – A true all-rounder with impact potential in both innings.

Naseem Shah (Islamabad) – Raw pace and wicket-taking threat.

Saim Ayub (Peshawar) – Exciting young left-hander who plays fearless cricket.

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Fantasy XI for Match 5

Captain: Babar Azam
Vice-Captain: Faheem Ashraf

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Fantasy Tips:

Stack your team with top-order batters — Rawalpindi rewards early stroke play.

All-rounders are key — especially those bowling at the death or batting in the top six.

Avoid picking too many bowlers from teams likely to bowl second, especially in high-chase scenarios.

Rotate your captain between openers and in-form all-rounders based on team news.

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Final Thoughts

With a venue built for runs and a league filled with stars, Rawalpindi is expected to witness back-to-back T20 blockbusters. Quetta will aim to build on early success, Islamabad hope to keep their momentum, while Lahore and Peshawar will look for redemption. For fantasy managers, it’s a golden opportunity to cash in on some predictable patterns — but T20 always has a surprise or two in store.

Eyes on the skies, batters in form, and sixes in the air — PSL 2025 is alive and flying.

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