LAHORE: Peshawar Zalmi will take on Multan Sultans in one of the most anticipated group-stage fixtures as the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 holds its 22nd Match at the National Stadium, Karachi Monday (today).
With both teams sitting at the top of the points table, this encounter carries significant weight in shaping the playoff race. Peshawar Zalmi, led by Babar Azam, remain the only undefeated side in the tournament, with four wins and one abandoned match. Their campaign began with a record-breaking chase of 215 against Rawalpindi Pindiz, showcasing the explosive batting depth of Mohammad Haris, Abdul Samad, and Michael Bracewell. Zalmi’s aggressive approach, particularly in chases, has made them a formidable unit, though their bowling remains vulnerable against strong top orders.
Multan Sultans, captained by Ashton Turner, are just behind Zalmi in the standings. With four wins from five matches, their only defeat came in a shortened contest against Lahore Qalandars. The Sultans boast a balanced squad with international pedigree — Steve Smith has already struck his maiden PSL fifty, while Sahibzada Farhan continues his explosive run at the top. Their bowling attack, led by Tabraiz Shamsi and Mohammad Wasim Jr., has been clinical in restricting opponents.
The Karachi pitch has produced first-innings totals averaging around 173 this season, with both batting first and chasing proving effective. Toss decisions will be crucial, as teams prefer chasing under lights. Key matchups include Shamsi vs Zalmi’s middle order, and Babar Azam vs Multan’s pace attack, both of which could tilt the balance.
Kusal Mendis (Peshawar Zalmi) – is in sensational form with 241 runs at a strike rate of 172. While Sufiyan Muqeem (Peshawar Zalmi) – joint-highest wicket-taker with 10 scalps at an economy of 6.19.
Multan Sultans enter as narrow favourites thanks to their depth and winning momentum, but Zalmi’s explosive batting under Babar Azam ensures this will be a fiercely contested clash. Expect a high-scoring thriller decided in the final overs, with both sides capable of producing match-winning moments.
