PSL 2023: Match 1 - MUL vs LAH - A Comprehensive Preview

The first match of the PSL 2023 season is finally here and it promises to be a cracker of a contest as Multan Sultans and Lahore Qalandars go head to head. The match is set to be played at the National Stadium in Karachi and is expected to draw a large crowd of cricket fans from all over the country.

match prediction multan vs lahore qalandar

Teams Overview

Multan Sultans have been a consistent performer in the PSL, having made it to the playoffs in the last two seasons. They have a strong batting line-up with the likes of Shan Masood, Rilee Rossouw, and Muhammad Rizwan, who have been in fine form in recent times. Their bowling attack is also well-rounded, with Khushdil Shah, Anwar Ali, and Shahnawaz Dhani leading the charge.

On the other hand, Lahore Qalandars have been a team that has always had the potential to turn the game on its head. They have a powerful batting unit with the likes of Fakhar Zaman, Skindar Raza, and Harry Brook, who have the ability to take the game away from the opposition. Their bowling attack experienced Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Haris Rauf as well as well-rounded and has the potential to cause problems for the opposition.

Key Players to Watch Out For

Multan Sultans: Shan Masood, Rilee Rossouw, Muhammad Rizwan
Lahore Qalandars: Fakhar Zaman, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf

Pitch and Weather Conditions

The Multan Cricket Stadium has hosted very few international matches. Although the ground has hosted 17 National T20 Cup matches. Out of 17 matches, 10 were won by the chasing teams. With the wicket expected to be batting-friendly, we can expect some high-scoring encounters in this match. The weather conditions are expected to be sunny and hot, with temperatures hovering around 24°C.

Head-to-Head Record

Multan Sultans and Lahore Qalandars have faced each other 10 times in the PSL, with Multan Sultans leading the head-to-head record 6-4. In their last encounter, Lahore Qalandar emerged victorious in the final by 42 runs

Our Prediction

Given the strength of both teams, it promises to be a closely contested match. Multan Sultans have the edge over Lahore Qalandars due to their consistency over the years. However, Lahore Qalandars have the ability to turn the game on its head. Toss will also major role in winning the game. The average 1st inning score is 157. Most of the matches were won by the chasing teams. We predict a win for Multan Sultans or the chasing team in this match.
Match Result
It all went to plan, and yet it was unpredictable right till the end. Lahore Qalandars' death bowling was as unplayable as you might expect from a line-up that boasts Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Zaman Khan, while it was impossible to prevent Mohammad Rizwan from setting up a glorious chasing platform for Multan Sultans. But the Sultans paid the price for leaving themselves just too much to do against a high-class bowling attack, falling short in the end by a solitary run. The trio bowling of Lahore Qalandar steals the show by winning just 1 run. Lahore Qalandar posted 175. Multan Sultan chased the target but could not cross the barrier.