Lahore Qalandars vs Islamabad United Prediction & Preview – PSL 2026

Lahore Qalandars play Islamabad United in the 16th match of the 2026 Pakistan Super League, an afternoon fixture at the National Stadium in Karachi on 9 April.

Lahore, captained by Shaheen Afridi, have a pace attack with Haris Rauf and Mustafizur Rahman alongside him, and batting options including Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Sikandar Raza and Asif Ali.

Islamabad, led by Shadab Khan, have Devon Conway, Mark Chapman and Haider Ali in the batting, with Imad Wasim, Faheem Ashraf and Chris Green offering all-round options. Richard Gleeson, Salman Irshad and Mohammad Hasnain make up the pace group.

With no dew expected, the contest should hinge on who handles the heat and the afternoon surface better. We pick Islamabad United.

Probable playing XI

Pitch report

The National Stadium surface is usually a solid one for batting, with consistent bounce and a fast outfield that carries well-timed shots to the rope. Seamers may get a little help with the new ball, and bowlers who vary their pace can be effective on a slightly dry surface in the middle overs. Dew is unlikely to matter in this afternoon game, so bowlers should keep better control than in night matches.

Weather

Karachi is expected to be hot but suitable around the 2:30 pm start, with temperatures of 33–35°C and mostly sunny skies. Rain is almost out of the question. Humidity may be moderate because of the coast, and a light to moderate breeze may give fast bowlers slight help.

Expected scores

• 1st innings: 170–190
• 2nd innings: 160–180

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