Pakistan Super League is the premium tournament of Pakistan cricket. Lahore Qalandars and Islamabad United share one of the fiercest rivalries in Pakistan Super League (PSL) history. Islamabad is the most successful team of Pakistan Super League winning three titles in 9 seasons. On the other hand, Lahore won the two titles after years of struggle. Head-to-head, Islamabad leads with 10 wins out of 19, but Lahore is closing in fast. Catch complete details of Lahore Qalandars vs Islamabad United for PSL 2025.
Lahore Qalandars vs Islamabad United: A Historic Rivalry in PSL
Lahore Qalandars and Islamabad United have a fierce rivalry in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Both teams have a passionate fan base and have faced off in many thrilling encounters. Both teams have given fans exciting moments, with thrilling matches and intense competition. Their rivalry continues to be one of the highlights of the PSL.
Lahore Qalandars joined the PSL in 2016. The team struggled in the early seasons. However, they turned things around in 2020, making the final for the first time. In 2022, they finally won their first PSL title. The team is known for its aggressive style and big-hitting players.
Islamabad United, one of the founding teams, won the PSL title thrice. They secured their first win in 2016, repeated the feat in 2018, and then tripled the record in 2024. The team is known for its balanced squad and leadership. Islamabad United has been consistent in making deep runs in the tournament.
Head to Head Record in PSL History
Total Matches = 19
Islamabad United = 10
Lahore Qalandars = 9
In their head-to-head record in PSL history, Islamabad United leads with 10 wins out of 19 matches. Lahore Qalandars have won 9 matches. The rivalry is closely contested, with Islamabad United having a slight edge. This shows both teams are highly competitive, and every encounter remains unpredictable.
Memorable Encounters between Two Teams
These two teams have been part of some thrilling matches in the PSL. Here are some of the most memorable encounters:
1. 2022 Eliminator – Lahore Qalandars win their 2nd PSL Final
In the 2023 PSL Eliminator, Lahore Qalandars faced Islamabad United. It was a high-stakes match with Lahore Qalandars coming out on top. Qalandars beat United by 6 runs in the last over thriller where David Wiese saved 8 runs. This win secured them a place in their second PSL final, showcasing their determination and strength under pressure.
Shaheen Afridi, Zaman Khan, and Haris Rauf picked two wickets each for Lahore. Abdullah Shafique scored a brilliant fifty for the team. For Islamabad, Liam Dawson and Wasim Jnr took two wickets. The notable batting performance for Islamabad came through the bat of Azam Khan who scored 40 runs off 28 balls. Daivd Wiese became the Player of the Match for his quick fire 28 runs and bowling the crucial last over to secure the victory.
2. PSL 2018 – Super Over Thriller
The 2018 encounter between Islamabad United and Lahore Qalandars was a low scoring game but it was breathtaking for cricket fans. The match ended in a tie, leading to a thrilling Super Over. Islamabad United edged past Lahore Qalandars in the Super Over, with both teams giving it their all.
For Islamabad United, Muhammad Sami and Samit Patel took three wickets each to take their team home. Yasir Shah took three wickets and Sohail Khan took two wickets for Lahore Qalandars in this game. Hussain Tallat’s 33 of 21 balls and Salman Agha’s 48 of 35 balls are the notable batting performances from both teams.
3. PSL 2020 – Islamabad’s Big Target of 198
In PSL 2020, Islamabad United pulled off an incredible victory, overcoming Lahore Qalandars by 71 runs. This match was a high stakes encounter for both teams as they needed the vital two points to stay in the hunt for the PSL playoffs. However, Lahore’s bowling and batting line-ups completely failed in this match.
Islamabad’s Colin Munro was the best batter of the match as he scored unbeaten 87 runs of just 59 balls. Lahore’s bowling lineup could not produce and single appreciable performance. Usman Shinwari and Ben Dunk showed some resistance in the batting lineup with 30 and 25 runs. But, Zafar Gohar and Rumman Raees’s three wickets each changed the match in favour of Islamabad United.
4. PSL 2023 – High-Scoring Thriller (Fakhar Zaman 100 leads Lahore to Victory)
In PSL 2023, Lahore Qalandars defeated Islamabad United in a thrilling high-scoring match. Fakhar Zaman played a brilliant knock, scoring 115 to guide Lahore Qalandars to a memorable victory. It was a big margin of victory as Lahore beat Islamabad by 119 runs.
Apart from Fakhar Zaman, Rashid Khan also bowled a great spell and took 4 wickets for 21 runs. Zaman Khan and Haris Rauf took 2 wickets each. Islamabad’s batting lineup totally flopped in this game, but Fazalhaq Farooqi took three wickets for the team.
Lahore Qalandars vs Islamabad United Squad 2025: Full Player List
Islamabad United
| Role | Player Name | Nationality |
| Batters | Haider Ali | Local |
| Rassie van der Dussen | Foreign | |
| Colin Munro | Foreign | |
| Matthew Short | Foreign | |
| Allrounders | Shadab Khan (Captain) | Local |
| Imad Wasim | Local | |
| Jason Holder | Foreign | |
| Mohammad Nawaz | Local | |
| Salman Ali Agha | Local | |
| Wicketkeepers | Azam Khan | Local |
| Andries Gous | Foreign | |
| Bowlers | Naseem Shah | Local |
| Rumman Raees | Local | |
| Ben Dwarshuis | Foreign | |
| Salman Irshad | Local | |
| Riley Meredith | Foreign | |
| Rising Stars | Hunain Shah | Local |
| Saad Masood | Local |
Islamabad United’s squad for the 2025 season is a strong mix of talent. They have a blend of local and foreign players, making them competitive. The team is led by Shadab Khan, a capable all-rounder. He will be backed by experienced players like Imad Wasim, Jason Holder, and Mohammad Nawaz.
In the batting department, Haider Ali, Rassie van der Dussen, and Colin Munro will play key roles. The wicketkeeping duties will be handled by Azam Khan and Andries Gous. The bowling attack looks promising with Naseem Shah, Rumman Raees, and Ben Dwarshuis. Emerging talents like Hunain Shah and Saad Masood add depth to the squad.
Lahore Qalandars
| Role | Player Name | Nationality |
| Batters | Fakhar Zaman | Local |
| Abdullah Shafique | Local | |
| Asif Ali | Local | |
| Kusal Perera | Foreign | |
| Daryll Mitchell | Foreign | |
| Allrounders | Shaheen Shah Afridi (C) | Local |
| Sikandar Raza | Foreign | |
| David Wiese | Foreign | |
| Tom Curran | Foreign | |
| Wicketkeepers | Sam Billings | Foreign |
| Muhammad Akhlaq | Local | |
| Bowlers | Haris Rauf | Local |
| Zaman Khan | Local | |
| Asif Afridi | Local | |
| Salman Ali Mirza | Local | |
| Rishad Hossain | Foreign | |
| Rising Stars | Jahandad Khan | Local |
| Mohammad Azab | Local | |
| Momin Qamar | Local | |
| Mohammad Naeem | Local |
The 2025 squad of Lahore Qalandars is packed with exciting talent and experience. Shaheen Shah Afridi leads the team, and he will be supported by key all-rounders like Sikandar Raza, David Wiese, and Tom Curran. Fakhar Zaman and Abdullah Shafique will strengthen the batting lineup, while Asif Ali and Kusal Perera will add firepower.
The team has a strong bowling attack with Haris Rauf and Zaman Khan leading the pace attack. Asif Afridi and Salman Ali Mirza will also provide backup bowling options. Wicketkeeping duties will be handled by Sam Billings, with Muhammad Akhlaq as backup. The rising stars like Jahandad Khan, Mohammad Azab, and Momin Qamar add further depth to the squad.
Key Players to Watch for Lahore Qalandars vs Islamabad United Game
Lahore Qalandars
- Fakhar Zaman is known for his aggressive top-order batting and ability to anchor innings.
- Shaheen Afridi excels with his lethal left-arm pace and ability to take early wickets.
- Haris Rauf is a fiery fast bowler with excellent pace and aggressive death-over skills.
- Daryll Mitchell is a reliable allrounder, contributing with both bat and ball in tight situations.
Islamabad United
- Shadab Khan is a versatile spinner and a reliable middle-order batsman with sharp fielding.
- Imad Wasim is a crafty left-arm spinner and a composed lower-order batsman with good control.
- Naseem Shah impresses with his express pace and ability to extract bounce from any surface.
- Rassie van der Dussen is known for his calm batting and consistency in building innings.
Best Batsmen: Who Can Change the Game?
| Team | Player Name | Runs | Average | HS |
| LQ | Fakhar Zaman | 2525 | 45.50 | 115 |
| LQ | Abdullah Shafiq | 678 | 28.25 | 75 |
| IU | Colin Munro | 1417 | 32.95 | 90 |
| IU | Azam Khan | 1140 | 25.33 | 97 |
1. Fakhar Zaman (Lahore Qalandars)
Fakhar Zaman has been a standout player for Lahore Qalandars in PSL. He has scored 2525 runs, with an average of 45.50. His highest score in the tournament is 115 runs. Fakhar has been a reliable top-order batsman for his team. His attacking cricket set the platform for Lahore Qalandars throughout the PSL history.
2. Abdullah Shafiq (Lahore Qalandars)
Abdullah Shafiq has contributed with 678 runs for Lahore Qalandars. His batting average is 28.25, which shows steady performance. His highest score in PSL is 75 runs. Shafiq has shown promise but lacks the consistency of some other players. However, he stabilized the batting attack of Lahore.
3. Colin Munro (Islamabad United)
Colin Munro has been a key player for Islamabad United. He has scored 1417 runs, with an average of 32.95. Munro’s highest score in PSL is 90 runs. He provides solid top order stability for his team. His attacking shots are known to take the game away from his opposition.
4. Azam Khan (Islamabad United)
Azam Khan has scored 1140 runs in PSL for Islamabad United. His average is 25.33, with a highest score of 97. Azam has had some impactful innings but remains inconsistent at times. He is the main player for Islamabad in the middle overs and able to hit long sixes.
Best Bowlers – Who Will Lead the Attack?
| Team | Player Name | Wickets | Average | BB |
| LQ | Shaheen Afridi | 103 | 21.02 | 5/4 |
| LQ | Haris Rauf | 66 | 29.54 | 4/23 |
| IU | Naseem Shah | 41 | 28.04 | 5/20 |
| IU | Salman Irshad | 38 | 26.13 | 4/30 |
1. Shaheen Shah Afridi (Lahore Qalandars)
Shaheen Shah Afridi has been a dominant force for Lahore Qalandars. He has taken 103 wickets in PSL, with an average of 21.02. His best bowling performance is 5/4. Shaheen is a key bowler, often leading the attack for his team. He is known to swing the new ball and take wickets in the first over.
2. Haris Rauf (Lahore Qalandars)
Haris Rauf has taken 66 wickets for Lahore Qalandars. His bowling average is 29.54, showing steady but sometimes inconsistent form. Rauf’s best bowling performance is 4/23. He brings pace and aggression to the Lahore Qalandars’ bowling attack.
3. Naseem Shah (Islamabad United)
Naseem Shah has taken 41 wickets in PSL because he played for Quetta for the first few years. His bowling average is 28.04, which is quite impressive. Naseem’s best performance is 5/20. He is a young and talented bowler, always looking to make an impact.
4. Salman Irshad (Islamabad United)
Salman Irshad has claimed 38 wickets for Islamabad United. His average stands at 26.13, reflecting good bowling performance. Irshad’s best bowling figures are 4/30. He is a reliable bowler, often stepping up when needed.
All-Rounders: The Game Changers
| Team | Player Name | Runs | Wickets | HS | BB |
| LQ | Sikandar Raza | 337 | 10 | 71 | 2/6 |
| LQ | David Wiese | 629 | 38 | 48 | 3/17 |
| IU | Shadab Khan | 1240 | 91 | 91 | 5/28 |
| IU | Imad Wasim | 1212 | 63 | 92 | 5/23 |
1. Sikandar Raza (Lahore Qalandars)
Sikandar Raza has scored 337 runs and taken 10 wickets for Lahore Qalandars. His highest score is 71, and his best bowling figures are 2/6. Raza has contributed as both a batsman and a bowler, providing balance to the team. His performances in the middle overs in bowling and batting are spectacular.
2. David Wiese (Lahore Qalandars)
David Wiese has been an important allrounder for Lahore Qalandars. He has scored 629 runs and taken 38 wickets. His highest score is 48, and his best bowling figures are 3/17. Wiese offers vital contributions with both bat and ball in key moments. His role as a finisher is the best for Lahore’s success in the PSL.
3. Shadab Khan (Islamabad United)
Shadab Khan is a standout allrounder for Islamabad United. He has scored 1240 runs and taken 91 wickets. His highest score is 91, while his best bowling performance is 5/28. Shadab is a key player, contributing in both batting and bowling departments. His field is a plus for the team.
4. Imad Wasim (Islamabad United)
Imad Wasim has scored 1212 runs and taken 63 wickets in PSL as he was a part of two teams Karachi and Islamabad. His highest score is 92, with a best bowling figure of 5/23. Imad is a reliable allrounder, consistently performing with both bat and ball.
Lahore Qalandars vs Islamabad United Player Comparison: Strengths & Key Stats
Head-to-head win percentage in PSL history
Islamabad United has a slightly better head-to-head win percentage over Lahore Qalandars in PSL history. Though both teams are competitive, Islamabad has had more success in the earlier years. Lahore picked up the pace in the later years.
Which team has the stronger squad in PSL 2025?
Both squads have strong lineups, but Islamabad United appears slightly more balanced with players like Shadab Khan, Colin Munro, Imad Wasim, Naseem Shah, and Jason Holder. Lahore Qalandars, on the other hand, have depth with Shaheen Shah Afridi leading the charge. Lahore picked some new players in the squad like Daryl Mitchell and Kusal Perera. Islamabad has more experience of PSL in the team. So, Islamabad United edges out with a bit more stability in key positions.
Batting lineup comparison: Who has more firepower?
Lahore Qalandars have more explosive batters with Fakhar Zaman, Daryl Mitchell, Asif Ali, and Kusal Perera. Their top-order is likely to put up big scores. Islamabad United has strong batters too, like Haider Ali and Colin Munro, but Lahore’s aggressive batting lineup gives them an edge in firepower.
Bowling attack comparison: Pace vs Spin analysis
Lahore Qalandars rely heavily on pace with Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf leading the attack. They also have decent spin options with Sikandar Raza and Asif Afridi. However, the spin bowling attack of Lahore will surely miss Rashid Khan this year. The slingy bowling of Zaman Khan will also add versatility to the Lahore bowling attack. Jahandad Khan will be a decent addition to the bowling attack.
Islamabad United counters with a solid pace attack including Naseem Shah, Rumman Raees, and Ben Dwarshuis. The spinners like Imad Wasim, Mohammad Nawaz and Shadab Khan are experienced on these Pakistani pitches. Islamabad’s batting lineup is their main strength. Overall, Lahore has the edge in pace bowling, while Islamabad has a stronger spin department with Shadab Khan’s leadership.
Lahore Qalandars vs Islamabad United Unique Achievements in PSL
1. Most successful team of PSL: Islamabad United
Islamabad United stands as the most successful team in PSL history, having won the title multiple times. Their consistency and balanced squad over the years have earned them this prestigious recognition.
2. Lahore from bottom of the table in 5 seasons to 2 consecutive PSL champions
Lahore Qalandars have made an inspiring turnaround in the PSL. After struggling for five seasons, they bounced back to win the PSL title twice in a row. Their rise from the bottom to the top is a testament to their growth and resilience.
3. Islamabad Batting Powerhouse
Islamabad United boasts a potent batting lineup with players like Haider Ali, Rassie van der Dussen, and Colin Munro. Their ability to post big scores makes them a formidable force in the PSL.
4. Lahore Qalandars Pace Bowling Arsenal
Lahore Qalandars are known for their pace attack, spearheaded by Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf. This dynamic pace duo gives them an edge in attacking opposition teams and defending totals.
5. Both sides’ quality all-rounders and middle order
Both Islamabad United and Lahore Qalandars are strong in the all-rounder department. Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz lead the charge for Islamabad, while Lahore counters with Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sikandar Raza, and David Wiese. The middle order for both teams provides the stability needed to recover from tough situations.
Batters vs Bowlers Duels to Watch
1. Fakhar Zaman vs Naseem Shah
Fakhar Zaman is known for his aggressive stroke play. He will face Naseem Shah’s fiery pace. Naseem is capable of bowling at high speeds and swinging the ball. This clash will be intense, with both looking to dominate the early overs.
2. Colin Munro vs Shaheen Shah Afridi
Colin Munro is a powerful hitter with the ability to clear the boundaries. He will go up against Shaheen Shah Afridi’s lethal pace and swing. Shaheen will try to break through the defense and take early wickets. Munro will aim to attack and set the tone.
3. Rassie van der Dussen vs Haris Rauf
Rassie van der Dussen is a technically sound batter. He will be challenged by Haris Rauf’s pace and bounce. Rauf bowls with aggression, and Rassie will need to counter it with solid defense. This will be a clash of skill versus pace.
4. Daryll Mitchell vs Shadab Khan
Daryll Mitchell is an all-rounder with solid batting power. He will face Shadab Khan’s crafty leg-spin. Shadab can mix up his deliveries to keep batters guessing. Mitchell will aim to play aggressive shots and dominate the spin.
5. Sikandar Raza vs Salman Ali Agha
Sikandar Raza is a skilled all-rounder who can play both spin and pace well. He will face Salman Ali Agha, a spin-bowling all-rounder. Both players will contribute in the middle overs with bat and ball. Raza’s versatility will be challenged by Salman’s accuracy.
6. Imad Wasim vs David Wiese
Imad Wasim is a left-arm spinner who controls the middle overs. He will bowl against David Wiese, a powerful hitter and steady bowler. Wiese’s batting can clear the boundaries, making this a key battle. Imad will try to outsmart him with his spin.
7. Tom Curran vs Haider Ali
Tom Curran is a pace bowler known for his accuracy and variations. He will face Haider Ali, a young batter with explosive power. Haider will aim to attack Curran’s pace, while Curran will try to bowl tight lines and lengths. This clash promises fireworks.
8. Azam Khan vs Zaman Khan
Azam Khan is a big hitter who can change the game quickly. He will face Zaman Khan, a pace bowler known for his speed. Zaman’s pace could test Azam’s ability to handle fast bowling. Azam will look to dominate, while Zaman will try to get the breakthrough.
9. Salman Irshad vs Sam Billings
Salman Irshad is a pace bowler who relies on speed and bounce. He will bowl against Sam Billings, a wicketkeeper-batter with good adaptability. Billings is skilled at playing both spin and pace. Irshad will try to unsettle him with fast deliveries, while Billings will look to control the innings.
Lahore Qalandars vs Islamabad United: Best Performances in PSL History
1. Fakhar Zaman Hundred against Islamabad United in PSL 2023
Fakhar Zaman played a brilliant knock, scoring a century against Islamabad United in PSL 2023. He dominated the Islamabad bowlers and provided the team with a solid foundation. Fakhar Zaman made 115 runs on 57 balls at a strike rate of 201. His innings includes 8 towering sixes and the same number of fours.
2. Faheem Ashraf’s 6/19 Bowling Figure against Lahore
Faheem Ashraf delivered an exceptional performance with the ball, taking 6 wickets for just 19 runs against Lahore Qalandars. His brilliant spell helped Islamabad United dominate the game and restricted Lahore to a low total. It was a high scoring game where Ashraf’s bowling stopped Lahore from chasing the target.
3. Cameron Delport 100 against Lahore is PSL 2019
Cameron Delport played a spectacular knock, scoring a century against Lahore Qalandars in PSL 2019. His aggressive batting helped Islamabad United post a challenging total of 238. His inning includes 13 fours and 6 sixes. The strike rate for this inning was 195.
4. Shaheen Afridi’s 4/18 in PSL 2023 to Lead Lahore Qalandars’ Crucial Playoffs Win
Shaheen Afridi produced a stunning performance in PSL 2020 with figures of 4 wickets for 18 runs. His effort was a game-changer and a highlight of the tournament. However, his team could not secure the victory.
5. Match Records in Terms of Victory Margin
The largest margin of victory by runs between the two teams was achieved by Lahore Qalandars, who won by 119 runs on March 9, 2023. The record for 2nd highest victory margin is also possessed by Lahore who won the game by 110 on Feb 27, 2023.
In terms of wickets, Islamabad United’s most significant win was by 8 wickets on February 10, 2016. The 2nd highest wicket margin was also 8 wickets, where Islamabad beat Lahore on Feb 17, 2024.
FAQs
1. Who is the captain of Islamabad United squad?
Shadab Khan is the captain of Islamabad United.
2. What is the meaning of Lahore Qalandars?
The term “Qalandars” refers to a group of Sufi mystics known for their unconventional lifestyle. In the context of the team, it signifies a free-spirited and fearless approach to cricket.
3. Who is the head coach of Lahore Qalandars?
As of the 2024 season, Aaqib Javed serves as the head coach of Lahore Qalandars. Now, Lahore hired Darren Gough because Aaqib has taken the role of National team’s selector and head coach.
4. Who is the best player of Islamabad United?
Shadab Khan is widely regarded as Islamabad United’s standout player, contributing significantly with both bat and ball.
5. Which team captain is Babar Azam?
Babar Azam captains Peshawar Zalmi in the Pakistan Super League.
6. Who is the owner of Islamabad United?
Islamabad United is owned by Leonine Global Sports, a subsidiary of Leonine Global Investments, led by Amna Naqvi and Ali Naqvi.