LAHORE, Pakistan: Peshawar Zalmi captain Babar Azam won the toss and chose to field first against Quetta Gladiators in the 17th match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10 at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Sunday.
The match is crucial for both sides as they look to stay in contention for the playoffs.
Peshawar Zalmi currently sit fourth on the points table with two wins and three losses, while Quetta Gladiators are close behind in fifth place with two wins and two losses.
A victory today is vital for either team to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Both teams have impressed with the ball this season but have struggled with consistency in their batting.
Today’s clash is likely to hinge on which side can perform better with the bat and seize the full two points on offer.
For Peshawar Zalmi, a win would see them draw level on points with Lahore Qalandars and Karachi Kings.
Their batting line-up is beginning to take shape, with explosive options extending down to No.7 to support skipper Babar Azam, who has started to find form.
The return of Saim Ayub from injury could further strengthen their top order, provided he can get some runs under his belt.
In the bowling department, teenage pacer Ali Raza has been a standout performer, ably supported by international recruits Luke Wood and Alzarri Joseph.
Arif Yaqoob has led the spin attack effectively. Peshawar are expected to field an unchanged side unless any last-minute fitness concerns arise, with Bangladesh’s Nahid Rana a possible inclusion if needed.
Quetta Gladiators, meanwhile, will look to build on their improved bowling display in their last outing.
The experienced Mohammad Amir and Khurram Shahzad have led their pace attack well, while spinner Abrar Ahmed has shouldered much of the spin bowling responsibilities.
However, concerns remain over their fifth and sixth bowling options, with Faheem Ashraf, Saud Shakeel, and Mark Chapman sharing duties without much success.
Quetta Gladiators have also experimented with several players, including Kyle Jamieson, Ali Majid, Akeal Hosein, and Usman Tariq, in search of the right balance.
Peshawar Zalmi Playing XI
Saim Ayub, Babar Azam (captain), Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Mohammad Haris (wicketkeeper), Hussain Talat, Mitchell Owen, Abdul Samad, Alzarri Joseph, Luke Wood, Arif Yaqoob, Ali Raza.
Quetta Gladiators Playing XI
Saud Shakeel (captain), Finn Allen, Rilee Rossouw, Kusal Mendis (wicketkeeper), Mark Chapman, Hasan Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim, Mohammad Amir, Khurram Shahzad, Abrar Ahmed.
