Islamabad United bat first against Zalmi in PSL 2025 clash

(Web Desk): Islamabad United won the toss and chose to bat first against Peshawar Zalmi in the fifth match of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025, as both teams aim to build early momentum in the tournament.

Islamabad United, three-time PSL champions, are in top form after a comfortable eight-wicket win over Lahore Qalandars. Chasing a target of 139, they secured their sixth consecutive PSL victory, continuing the strong performance that led them to the title last season. The team appears well-balanced, with both batting and bowling units performing effectively.

On the other hand, Peshawar Zalmi had a tough start to their campaign, suffering an 80-run defeat against Quetta Gladiators. Chasing a massive 216, Zalmi were bowled out for just 136. While young pacer Ali Raza impressed with the ball, the rest of the bowling attack struggled, and the batting lineup failed to deliver.

Zalmi captain Babar Azam will be hoping for a quick comeback, relying on star players like Saim Ayub and Mohammad Haris to help the team find its rhythm.

Islamabad United made two changes to their playing XI, bringing in Saad Masood and Ben Dwarshuis in place of Riley Meredith and Muhammad Shahzad.

Playing XIs

Peshawar Zalmi: Babar Azam (capt), Saim Ayub, Mohammad Haris (wk), Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Mitchell Owen, Hussain Talat, George Linde, Alzarri Joseph, Mohammad Ali, Sufiyan Muqeem, Ali Raza

Islamabad United: Andries Gous, Sahibzada Farhan, Colin Munro, Salman Agha, Azam Khan (wk), Shadab Khan (capt), Jason Holder, Imad Wasim, Saad Masood, Naseem Shah, Ben Dwarshuis.