Lahore Qalandars vs Karachi Kings: Preview, prediction and likely lineups for PSL 9 match
The Qalandars are currently on a three-match losing streak
The most anticipated match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine is set to get underway on Saturday between Lahore Qalandards and Karachi Kings at the Gaddafi Stadium.
Karachi Kings have a slight advantage with a 4-7 record in their favour over the past five years. Their previous encounter in the last season saw the Kings secure a convincing victory by 86 runs, underlining their dominance in recent meetings.
Lahore Qalandars will be keen to bounce back from their recent loss against Multan Sultans. Despite commendable efforts from Rassie van der Dussen, who scored a gritty 54 runs, and Fakhar Zaman's explosive knock of 41 runs, the two-time PSL champions fell short as Mohammad Rizwan's troops chased down the target of 166 runs with five wickets in hand.
Shaheen Afridi and Zaman Khan impressed with the ball, taking two wickets each, but their contributions couldn't prevent the defeat.
On the other hand, Karachi Kings approach this match with confidence following their comprehensive victory over Peshawar Zalmi. Delivering an outstanding performance, Shan Masood's side restricted Zalmi to 154 runs, thanks to remarkable bowling displays from Mir Hamza and Hasan Ali, who both took three wickets each.
During the chase, Kieron Pollard's rapid 49 runs and James Vince's composed 38 runs ensured Karachi Kings comfortably chased down the target with seven wickets in hand, showcasing their batting prowess and ability to handle pressure.
Pitch report
The surface at Gaddafi Stadium is known as a "paradise" for batters. However, it provides early assistance to the bowlers, especially pacers with the new ball. A high-scoring clash can be expected.
Probable Playing XIs
Lahore Qalandars: Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Rassue van der Dussen, Sikandar Raza, Jahandad Khan, Abdullah Shafique, Carlos Brathwaite, George, Shaheen Afridi (C), Haris Rauf, Zaman Khan
Karachi Kings: Shan Masood (C), Muhammad Akhlaq (wk), James Vince, Shoaib Malik, Kieron Pollard, Mohammad Nawaz, Irfan Khan, Daniel Sams, Hasan Ali, Mir Hamza, Tabraiz Shamsi
Prediction
Karachi Kings remain favourite courtesy of their remarkable display in the last match. However, playing at their home ground, Shaheen's men cannot be ruled out as they would be willing to give their all to avoid suffering their fourth consecutive loss in the PSL 9.
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