Multan Sultans have been among the most consistent sides in recent PSL seasons, and they approach the landmark Season X with a squad built on clarity of roles, proven performers, and a sprinkle of x-factor talent.
Mohammad Rizwan remains the heartbeat of the side, but there are several other layers to this Multan unit — with data trends offering fascinating insights into their strengths and potential concerns.
Here is who and what could define Multan Sultans’ PSL X challenge.
Rizwan — The PSL’s Ultimate Accumulator
Mohammad Rizwan’s record in the PSL since 2020 perfectly sums up his batting philosophy — low risk, high control. He has the second-highest balls per dismissal (BPD) in PSL history among batters with 500+ balls faced, trailing only Babar Azam. However, his low strike rate of 129.7 is a major cause of concern.
His ability to bat deep has anchored many of Multan’s victories, and the team will be hoping that his shrewdness as captain can guide their fortunes once again.
Highest Balls Per Dismissal in PSL since 2020 (min. 500 balls faced)
| Player | Innings | Strike Rate | Balls Per Dismissal (BPD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Babar Azam | 53 | 133.0 | 41.1 |
| Mohammad Rizwan | 49 | 129.7 | 37.9 |
| Shoaib Malik | 51 | 134.4 | 26.4 |
The Michael Bracewell Effect
Multan Sultans’ platinum pick remains one of the most underrated players in cricket at the moment. Despite captaining his international side recently, which shows his impact, he has been overlooked by franchises across the globe.
But others’ loss could be Multan’s gain, as he remains lethal with both the bat and the ball. In fact, he boasts the second-best average when tasked with bowling inside the powerplay since 2020.
Best Bowling Avg of a Spinner in Powerplay since 2020 (min. 40 overs)
| Player | Overs | Wickets | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Imran Tahir | 67.0 | 29 | 14.9 |
| Michael Bracewell | 40.4 | 17 | 17.4 |
| Manimran Siddarth | 83.0 | 28 | 17.8 |
Throw in his ability to tonk the ball when needed, and Multan may have pulled off a heist with the Kiwi.
Iftikhar Ahmed — The Ultimate Mystery
One player who could have a massive say in where Multan Sultans end up is Iftikhar Ahmed. Since 2024, Iftikhar’s split between pace and spin has been stark. Against pace, he’s operated with a brutal strike rate of 150.6, clearing the ropes every 13.6 balls. But versus spin, he’s turned into an accumulator — scoring at just 99.4 while averaging a staggering 76.5, indicating a clear risk-free approach.
If he ends up as a designated hitter in the death overs, just like he was used by Multan last year, he is capable of turning the game on its head, but if he fails to accelerate against the spinners, his innings could cost the Sultans in the long run.
Iftikhar Ahmed since 2024
| Bowling Type | Innings | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Balls per Six (Bp6) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pace | 61 | 595 | 29.8 | 150.6 | 13.6 |
| Spin | 31 | 153 | 76.5 | 99.4 | 30.8 |
Akif Javed — Leading the Pace Charge
In an attack that boasts David Willey, Mohammad Hasnain, Josh Little, and Chris Jordan, it is surprising to think that Akif Javed, a talent still finding his feet in cricket, could be the key pacer for the franchise. The left-hander has enjoyed a breakout season this time around and trails only one player in the most wickets category after a stellar campaign.
Most Wickets by a Pacer in 2024/25 Season
| Player | Overs | Wickets | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rizwan Butt | 94.5 | 36 | 16.7 |
| Akif Javed | 80.3 | 35 | 17.1 |
| Taskin Ahmed | 68.2 | 35 | 13.9 |
Usama Mir — A Double-Edged Sword
Usama Mir’s form could also come under the radar for Multan Sultans as PSL X progresses. The spinner has become a regular wicket-taker for the team (59 wickets in 155.4 overs), but his economy rate remains the worst among PSL spinners.
His ability to strike is undeniable, but Multan will need to manage his overs carefully, especially on flat batting surfaces if they want to stifle the opposition in the middle overs.
Worst Economy Rate by a Spinner in PSL (min. 20 wickets)
| Player | Overs | Wickets | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Usama Mir | 155.4 | 59 | 8.2 |
| Abrar Ahmed | 65.0 | 22 | 7.8 |
| Liam Dawson | 84.3 | 21 | 7.8 |
Outlook and Predictions
Multan Sultans enter PSL X as one of the most tactically sound sides, relying on experience and match-ups. Rizwan’s stability at the top, coupled with a hungry and balanced squad, provides a winning formula.
However, managing the high-risk, high-reward spin options of Usama Mir and squeezing maximum value from Michael Bracewell’s powerplay overs will be critical.
Multan Sultans look built for another deep run — but as always in the PSL, fine margins will decide whether they lift the trophy or fall just short as they have in the previous three attempts. Will it be a fourth time lucky for the franchise?
According to our predictions, Multan still have what it takes to make it to the PSL X Playoffs.
Prosports.pk brings you the latest updates from the world of PSL! Stay updated with the latest PSL X points table, PSL X Squads, PSL X Schedule, PSL Live Score & Much more!
