Daily Times

The HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 resumes today after a nine-day break caused by border tensions between Pakistan and India. The matches were paused from May 7 to May 10, leading to uncertainty and player departures. A ceasefire allowed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to restart the tournament. With only eight league matches left, five out of six teams are still fighting for a place in the playoffs.

Karachi Kings, led by David Warner, will face Babar Azam’s Peshawar Zalmi in today’s key clash. Kings are currently second on the table and need just one more win to qualify. Meanwhile, Zalmi must win both remaining games to stay in the race. Quetta Gladiators have already reached the playoffs. On the other hand, last year’s finalists Multan Sultans are out after losing eight of their nine games.

Islamabad United and Lahore Qalandars each have one match left and need wins to qualify. Qalandars face Zalmi in a do-or-die game on May 18. United will face Kings on May 19. The final round of league games is being held in Rawalpindi before the playoffs move to Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium from May 21 to 25.

International players have returned to support their teams. Karachi welcomed back Warner, Vince, Seifert, Nabi, and others. United added Hales and van der Dussen. Injuries forced Qalandars to replace key players with Shakib Al Hasan and Bhanuka Rajapaksa. Zalmi are without Alzarri Joseph but have added Kohler-Cadmore and Luke Wood. Quetta added Chandimal and Fernando while keeping Rossouw and Finn Allen. Multan brought in replacements to complete their squad.

Heading into the final week, Mohammad Rizwan leads the run-scorers with 363 runs. Abbas Afridi and Jason Holder top the wicket charts with 15 each. Rossouw has taken 11 catches, the most so far. With several teams in must-win situations, the coming days promise thrilling action as the PSL heads toward its finale on May 25.