Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars (PSL 2025) Match 1 – Dream11 Tips, Pitch Report, Match Time & Live Streaming Details!

Cricket fans, buckle up for an electrifying start to the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 as the stage is set for the Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars (PSL 2025) Match 1, taking place on April 11, 2025, at the iconic Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

The defending champions Islamabad United are ready to battle it out against a rejuvenated Lahore Qalandars side in what promises to be a high-scoring and high-stakes showdown.

Match Details

• Fixture: Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars

• Match Number: 1

• Date: April 11, 2025

• Time: 9:00 PM IST (8:00 PM Local Time)

• Toss Time: 8:30 PM IST

• Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi

• Tournament: Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025

Pitch Report – Rawalpindi Ready for Runs

The pitch at Rawalpindi has developed a reputation for being a batter’s dream, and this clash could very well turn into a run-fest.

Surface Summary:

• Batting Friendly: Expect a flat surface with consistent bounce and pace

• First Innings Average Score: 180–200 runs

• Early Swing: Pacers might enjoy some help with the new ball

• Spinners’ Role: Can come into play under lights as the surface wears

• Boundaries: Short and tempting for aggressive stroke-makers

Toss Strategy: Win the toss and bat first—that’s been the winning mantra here more often than not.

Team Form & Match Context

• Islamabad United: The reigning champs are led by the dynamic Shadab Khan and come with the confidence of winning PSL 2024. With match-winners like Naseem Shah, Colin Munro, and Azam Khan, they’re eyeing a dominant start.

• Lahore Qalandars: After a forgettable 2024 campaign, Shaheen Afridi’s squad is hungry for a comeback. With stars like Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, and Sikandar Raza, they’ve got the tools to upset the champs.

Dream11 Tips: Smart Picks & Strategy

Here’s your fantasy guide to building a balanced and high-scoring Dream11 team:

Wicketkeepers

• Azam Khan (IU) – A power-packed batter with the gloves. His aggressive style is made for Rawalpindi’s flat pitch.

• Sam Billings (LQ) – Steady behind the stumps and capable of holding the innings together.

Batters

• Fakhar Zaman (LQ) – Explosive at the top. Perfect fit for Dream11 captaincy if you expect a flying start.

• Colin Munro (IU) – Reliable for fast starts and quick 30s or 40s.

• Rassie van der Dussen (IU) – Technically sound and good against pace attacks.

All-Rounders

• Shadab Khan (IU) – The ultimate fantasy asset. Expect four overs and key middle-order contributions.

• Sikandar Raza (LQ) – A smart pick with spin and the ability to anchor an innings.

• Imad Wasim (IU) – Value pick with economical bowling and finishing skills with the bat.

Bowlers

• Shaheen Afridi (LQ) – Always a threat in the powerplay and death. High wicket potential.

• Naseem Shah (IU) – Can swing it upfront and bowl searing yorkers late on.

• Haris Rauf (LQ) – High pace, high risk, but high reward too.

• Jason Holder (LQ) – Adds control and experience. Can be useful in middle and death overs.

Suggested Dream11 Team

Captain Picks:

• Shadab Khan (safe and consistent)

• Fakhar Zaman (high-risk, high-reward)

• Shaheen Afridi (differential with wicket-taking flair)

Tips for Dream11 Success

• Top-Order Focus: Prioritize batters who open or bat in the top 3

• All-Rounders are Gold: Get 2–3 versatile players who bowl and bat

• Pace Attack: Pick death-over bowlers for potential wicket hauls

• Watch the Toss: Team strategy might change with who bats first

Head-to-Head Stats

• Total Matches: 13

• Islamabad Wins: 7

• Lahore Wins: 6

• Current Form: Lahore has won the last 5 consecutive matches since 2021

Live Streaming & Broadcast Info

India

• TV: Sony Sports Network

• Online: FanCode and Prime Video

Pakistan

• TV: Geo Super, PTV Sports

• Online: Tapmad, Tamasha, Vedu App (Free on Mobile)

Other Regions

• UK: Sky Sports Cricket

• USA: Willow TV

• Middle East: Cricbuzz (selected matches)

Weather Forecast

• Temperature: 22–24°C

• Humidity: Around 50%

• Rain: No threat of showers, expect a full match

Final Thoughts

Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars (PSL 2025) Match 1 is the ideal PSL opener—a clash of champions, fierce rivals, and firepower-packed lineups. Load your Dream11 team with top-order strikers and bowling all-rounders, and prepare for an edge-of-the-seat showdown.

Will Islamabad ride their championship momentum, or will Lahore kick off a redemption arc? Find out tonight at 9:00 PM IST—don’t miss it!