PSL 2024 Match 1, LAH Vs ISL | Playing 11 Prediction, Cricket Tips, Preview & Live Streaming

Shaheen Afridi will lead Lahore Qalandars [X.com]

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) will enter its ninth season on Saturday as defending champions Lahore Qalandars square off with Islamabad United for the tournament opener at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. 

While Shaheen Afridi has been retained as the Qalandars' skipper, all-rounder Shadab Khan will lead the Islamabad franchise this year.

LAH vs ISL: Team Previews

Lahore Qalandars

Lahore Qalandars have been the most successful franchise in PSL's history. The Shaheen Afridi-led side won the previous two seasons and will enter the new season to defend the title and script history with a hat-trick of title wins.

However, the team has been hit with a massive blow as key spinner Rashid Khan got ruled out a few weeks ago due to back surgery. Regardless, the lineup is filled with stars from across the globe.

Moreover, the formidable pace duo of Afridi and Haris Rauf is expected to give United a hard time.

Overall, the opening game of the PSL 2024 season is expected to be a starry and exciting affair. Lahore Qalandars specifically would want to kick off the title-defending campaign on a positive and winning note.

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Islamabad United

Islamabad United finished third on the points table last PSL season. They lost qualifier two to Peshawar Zalmi, marking the end of a successful PSL campaign.

That being said, this year, the United breathed a sigh of relief as Naseem Shah was declared for the entirety of the tournament. Not only that, Shah will be accompanied by his brother and Pakistan's rising star, Ubaid Shah.

These two brothers of destruction are expected to lead Islamabad's bowling lineup this season.

Besides, Shadab Khan will continue to lead the side despite subpar form. The United franchise has placed much trust in the all-rounder, and hopefully, Khan can repay it with some rewards. 

Overall, Islamabad United's squad and lineup look stronger compared to last season. While a couple of foreign players have pulled out, the United can bank on homegrown talent to ensure a successful campaign.

LAH vs ISL: Match Details & Live Streaming

LAH vs ISL: Gaddafi Stadium Pitch Report

The wicket of Gaddafi Stadium is renowned for its traditionally flat and hard surface. Strokeplay is relatively easier for batters, and thus, we expect a high-scoring game to unfold for the season opener. Chasing under the lights should be a good option with no dew expectations. Moreover, the average first-inning run is around 170-180.

LAH vs ISL: Probable Playing XIs

Lahore Qalandars: Fakhar Zaman, Mirza Baig, Abdullah Shafique, Rassie van der Dussen, Sahibzada Farhan, Kamran Ghulam, David Wiese, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Zaman Khan, Syed Faridoun

Islamabad United: Alex Hales, Colin Munro, Haider Ali, Azam Khan, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Naseem Shah, Tymal Mills, Obed McCoy, Hunain Shah

LAH vs ISL: Cricket Exchange Fantasy Tips

LAH vs ISL: Winner Prediction

Lahore Qalandars' squad balance and composition are much better than Islamabad United's. Thus, the Qalandars will likely win this contest and kick off the new season campaign in style.

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