Which PSL Team Truly Owns the Knockout Stage?

Ah, the knockout phase of the Pakistan Super League; the pressure maximized, the crowds electric, and the real dramatics unfold. While it’s one thing to dominate the league phase, it is another to arrive when the stakes are high and it’s win or die. Some teams in this space have wilted under the pressure, while others thrive in that space. So, our question today is, which team in PSL history leads the way in this phase of the competition? 

1. Islamabad United

In terms of knockout efficiency, Islamabad United is the very definition of consistency, with 10 wins in 15 knockout games from 2016 to 2024. Islamabad has a very respectable win/loss ratio of 2.00, which is the highest of all franchises with enough knockout games to qualify for comparison.

But that is not all. When we also look at the performances of United’s knockouts, they are not doing this by luck. They have averaged 25.42 for wins, and had a strike rate of 8.68 runs per over in the years 2016 to 2024. This shows that in winning, as well as losing a playoff match, they do this with skill and style to pressure live games back onto the opposition. For example, they scored their highest score in a knockout of 189.-less than 200- in a knockout.

2. Peshawar Zalmi

Islamabad United is the smooth and calculated assassin, and Peshawar Zalmi is the gritty street fighter. They are experienced, tough, and always involved. As they have won 8 times out of 20 knockouts, they are certainly a perennial playoff team. But with a 0.666 win/loss, a wild ride in the knockouts is for sure

Zalmi has set monumental scores, with 214 being the highest among the three teams we are comparing against. However, they do not lack power; they lack consistency, with an average of 24.09 and RPO of 8.51. They should be good, but not always great, when it matters.

3. Lahore Qalandars

In the first few seasons of the PSL, the entertainment value the Lahore Qalandars were exhibiting over the signifier horror; however, throughout the 2nd half of the PSL from the years 2020-2023, Lahore changed their narrative for the better. They have played 9-day matches and are 6-3, for a W/L ratio of approximately 2.00, which is roughly efficient as Islamabad, although the latter’s overall record is based on more matches.

The Lahore Qalandars differentiate from Islamabad United relative to the difference in ways they can dazzle, even if they were less effective over a more significant period. What both teams do is waste extra runs, an example being Lahore bowled teams out for 76 and then chased and smashed 200 in another game at crush time.

So, who is the king of knockouts? Statistically, Islamabad United have some chance given their consistent, smoother performances increased the super over a longer period. Lahore’s performance is comparable performances as Islamabad but the comparison sample size from Islamabad looks better and more consistent. Regardless, one has to be explosive to win the Zalmis, Lahore has to win, and Islamabad has to calm win.

However, it is also important to remember that knockouts will always yield surprises sooner, than later. For the next season, will we see a new big gun emerge, or will one of our big guns reign supreme over the PSL sudden death homes?

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

For more exclusive updates, visit BJSports to access Exclusive News that is only for you, incisive analysis, and updates, and to keep up with all of the latest information on your favorite remarkable cricket players and teams. To ensure you never miss out, join in on the fun right away!

anne julliene

See Full Bio