Islamabad defeated Peshawar last night [Source: Twitter]
In a highly anticipated cricket match, Quetta Gladiators and Islamabad United will face off in the 13th match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2023.
The teams will meet on Friday, February 24, at the National Stadium in Karachi, adding to the excitement of the tournament.
Team Preview: Quetta Gladiators
The Gladiators, led by Sarfaraz Ahmed, have had a difficult start to their campaign, having suffered a 63-run defeat against Lahore Qalandars in their previous game while chasing a daunting 198 runs.
They currently find themselves languishing at the bottom of the league table with only one win from their opening four matches. The team will be eager to bounce back and get their campaign back on track.
Team Preview: Islamabad United
In contrast, Islamabad United have been in good form, winning two out of their three opening matches, including a dominant six-wicket victory over Peshawar Zalmi in their previous game.
Led by Shadab Khan, the team has found a winning rhythm, with Hasan Ali taking three wickets to restrict their opponents to just 156 runs.
Then, young Afghan batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz smashed a quickfire 62 off 31 balls to secure an easy win in just 14.5 overs. Islamabad United will be looking to maintain their winning momentum in the upcoming match.
Match Details
Date and Time: February 24, 07.30 PM IST
Venue: National Stadium Karachi
Live Streaming: Sony Sports Network and Sony LIV
Pitch Report
The National Stadium in Karachi is known for its batsmen-friendly pitches, and this season is no exception. Teams have consistently found it easy to score big totals, with an average first innings score of 162. The match promises to be an exciting clash of two talented teams, and cricket fans across the country would be hoping for a high-scoring game.
Predicted Playing XI
Quetta Gladiators: Jason Roy, Martin Guptill, Abdul Bangalzai, Mohammad Hafeez, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Sarfaraz Ahmed(C/WK), Odean Smith, Naseem Shah, Qais Ahmad, Mohammad Hasnain
Islamabad United: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Colin Munro, Rassie van der Dussen, Shadab Khan (C), Asif Ali, Azam Khan (WK), Mubasir Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Tom Curran, Hasan Ali, Rumman Raees
Cricket Exchange Fantasy Tips
Wicket-Keeper: Rahmanullah Gurbaz
Batters: Rassie van der Dussen, Iftikhar Ahmed, Colin Munro
All-Rounders: Mohammed Hafeez, Shadab Khan, Odean Smith
Bowlers: Tom Curran, Mohammad Hasnain, Hasan Ali, Naseem Shah/Qais Ahmed
Captain: Rahmanullah Gurbaz
Vice-Captain: Rassie van der Dussen
For detailed fantasy analysis, click here.
Prediction
Islamabad United look the more threatening side on the paper and with their batsman in top form, they are favourites to win the contest.