Pakistan Super League Tips Matches 34 and 35: Lahore in must win battle

Click here for Islamabad United v Rawalpindi Pindiz odds
Thursday 23 April, 10.30
TV: Live on Willow/Tapmad/Ary

Islamabad United v Rawalpindi Pindiz PSL Tips

Islamabad have not played for a week and yet they still find themselves in third position. Indeed, they could yet pip Multan Sultans for second spot if they were to win their three remaining matches. One of which is against Sultans in a potential decider.

They couldn't have asked for a more perfect opponent to ease their way back in. Pindiz have lost each of their eight games. What is remarkable is that they haven't even come close in any of them. They face the ignominy of being one of the worst PSL teams ever seen.

Even a worn and battered Karachi surface has not even proved to be a leveller. The first port of call is a short of Pindiz' total runs line with Sportsbook at a toppy 172.5. In first-innings at the venue, scores have come under that mark eight times in six. Backing Pindiz at that quote in Karachi has won three from four.

They are demoralised and want it all to be over. Not surprisingly there have been rumours of dressing-room discontent and only reliable pros like daryl Mitchell and Sam Billings may be able to hold up United.

Click here for Lahore Qalandars v Karachi Kings odds
Thursday 23 April, 15.00
TV: Live on Willow/Tapmad/Ary

Lahore Qalandars v Karachi Kings PSL Tips

Lahore and Karachi are both in must-win territory as the play-off race comes to a close. But only Lahore seem to be inspired to the race to the line.

They have shown flashes of form with two wins from two and, in reality, they are locked in a battle with Hyderabad Kingsmen (who surprisingly beat Multan on Wednesday) for the fourth spot. That's because Kings have collapsed.

Since Kings had a hiatus and allowed the likes of skip David Warner to return to Australia and breaks away for Adam Zampa, Azam Khan and Hasan Ali, their form has been non-existent. Prior to that decision they have won three from three. Since they have lost five in a row. It is a good lesson for teams who think form and fitness are functions that can be turned on and off like a tap.

Warner has only just come back into the XI following an arrest for drink driving when back in Australia and an injury to his back. They were well-beaten by Zalmi last time.

Kings seem to have trumped Lahore for professionalism, which is quite an achievement. But the Qalandars might have the bit between their teeth and the match odds market agrees, making them 1.715/7 favourites.

The best way to get with Lahore is to wait for Sportsbook specials on the derivative win markets such as a Lahore win and most sixes or a Lahore win and both teams to score 170. The latter may be available at 11/102.11.

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