On May 17, 2025, Karachi Kings secured their place in the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) X playoffs with a 23-run victory over Peshawar Zalmi, joining defending champions Islamabad United and Quetta Gladiators.
Chasing 238, Zalmi scored 214/5, falling short despite a strong effort, per Cricket World. This fifth win for the Kings, led by a 162-run stand from David Warner and James Vince, confirmed their progression and sealed Islamabad United’s qualification with 10 points.
The final playoff spot hinges on today’s match between Lahore Qalandars and Peshawar Zalmi, a virtual knockout. Qalandars hold nine points, one ahead of Zalmi’s eight, per the PSL points table. A Zalmi victory would secure their playoff berth, but a Qalandars win or a washout due to Qalandars’ higher points would see the defending champions advance.
KARACHI KINGS ARE THROUGH đź‘‘ #ApnaXHai l #HBLPSLX l #PZvKK pic.twitter.com/b7UdFoDPhd
— PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) May 17, 2025Quetta Gladiators lead with 13 points, followed by Karachi Kings (12 points) and Islamabad United (10 points). Per PCB’s official standings, Lahore Qalandars and Peshawar Zalmi, with nine and eight points, respectively, face a do-or-die clash. Social media users emphasised the match’s high stakes, reflecting fan anticipation, though unverified.
Karachi Kings’ recent form includes a thrilling win over Zalmi, while Islamabad United secured an eight-wicket victory against Quetta Gladiators earlier, per PSL-T20. Qalandars and Zalmi have had mixed results, making today’s game critical for their playoff hopes.
The Zalmi-Qalandars clash will determine the final playoff lineup, with fans and analysts watching closely. A washout would favour Qalandars, but Zalmi’s momentum could tip the scales in a full match, setting the stage for an intense PSL X postseason.
