Lahore Qalandars, Islambad United to lock horns in PSL 9 opener today

Defending champion Lahore Qalandars and Islamabad United are all set to lock horns with each other today (Saturday) in an opening match of the much-awaited Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine at the Gaddafi Cricket Stadium in Lahore.

Both PSL franchises had clinched two titles each, with Qalandars picking trophies back-to-back two seasons in 2022 and 2023, while United emerged victorious in 2016 and 2018.

The ceremony will begin with fireworks and live performances of Ali Zafar, Arif Lohar, Aima Baig and Noori at 6:30pm.

However, the match between the two teams will start at 8:00pm.

Qalandars' captain Shaheen, who has been leading the national cricket team as T20 skipper, led the franchise to win two consecutive titles after six trophy-less seasons.

In Friday’s press conference, Shaheen vowed to win the third title, saying “We have won back-to-back two seasons of PSL and now will try to clinch the third title.”

"Though we do not have the services of Khan, but we are satisfied with the combination, we will miss Rashid as he played a significant role in our two victories,” the 23-year-old team pacer said.

On the other hand, pacer Naseem Shah will make a comeback in cricket from United's side after recovering from a shoulder injury. 

Meanwhile, United skipper Shadab, who recently recovered from a fitness problem, kept an eye on the trophy and said he "had come back to PSL with a positive mindset". 

"Qalandars are a strong rival of United it would not be easy to beat them but our team is capable of playing according to the situation," the all-rounder said.