LAHORE: Three-time champions Lahore Qalandars are set to begin their title defense by taking on debutants Hyderabad Kingsmen in the opening match of the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The matches will be held from March 26 to May 3.
As rain played its part in halting the practice match between Peshawar Zalmi and Quetta Gladiators at the LCCA Stadium in Lahore yesterday, the real question is whether rain will play in the opening match of the tournament.
At 6:00 PM, conditions are expected to be cloudy with a temperature of 26°C, although the RealFeel temperature will be slightly lower at 25°C, suggesting comfortable conditions with less heat stress.
Winds are forecast from West-Northwest at 15 km/h, gusting to 22 km/h, moderate winds. Humidity is expected to be around 51%, making for slightly humid but uncomfortable conditions.
Cloud cover is forecast at 99%, which is due to overcast conditions and reduced sunshine. A UV index of 0 (low) and brightness levels are dark, indicating no significant sunlight exposure at this time.
Air quality is poor, which may cause discomfort to people with respiratory sensitivities. The dew point is around 16°C, which reflects moderate humidity in the air, making conditions somewhat humid but not oppressive.
By 7:00 PM, the temperature will rise slightly to 27°C and the RealFeel will be 26°C, maintaining the same level of comfort.
Conditions are forecast to be completely cloudy, with cloud cover increasing to 100%, indicating a completely cloudy sky. The wind is moving in the northwest direction at a speed of 15 km/h and the wind speed is 22 km/h. The wind is steady and brisk.
Humidity is expected to increase slightly to 53%, with a dew point rising to 17°C, indicating a gradual increase in humidity that will make conditions feel more humid over time.
Visibility is expected to be steady at 8 km, with brightness at 0 (dark), confirming nighttime conditions. Air quality can be poor, which can affect outdoor comfort, especially for people with respiratory problems.
For those who don’t know, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revised its logistical plans and is holding all matches behind closed doors as far as Karachi and Lahore.
This marks a departure from the original schedule which included places like Multan, Peshawar, Rawalpindi and Faisalabad.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that the decision was taken after consultation with the owners and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Lahore will host Eliminators 1 and 2 and the finals, while Karachi is set for the qualifiers. There is no change in the opening match between Hyderabad Kingsmen and Lahore Qalandars.
With the matches being held without spectators, the organizers have promised enhanced broadcast and production features to enhance the viewing experience for fans in Pakistan and around the world.
groups
Lahore Qalandars: Shaheen Shah Afridi (c), Abdullah Shafiq, Sikandar Raza, Mohammad Naeem, Mustafizur Rahman, Haris Raoob, Usama Mir, Faqar Zaman, Ubaid Shah, Haseebullah, Mohammad Farooq, Daniel Chams, Parvez Hussain Eman, Hussaif Tahirlat, D. Rubin Herman, Maz Khan, Ryan Burl and Shahab Khan.
Hyderabad Kingsmen: Marnus Labuschagne (catch), Hasan Khan (VC), Usman Khan, Akif Javed, Mas Sadaq, Saim Ayub, Muhammad Ali, Khusal Perera, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Shayan Jahangir, Glenn Maxwell, Hammad Azam, Riley Meredith, Sharjeel Khan, Huan Meham, Asif Meham Dayab. Arif, Mahesh Deekshana and Ahmed Hussain.