Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq has raised concerns over Islamabad United’s strategic use of resources in the ongoing Pakistan Super League PSL 9 season nine. Misbah particularly highlighted the handling of pacer Naseem Shah, emphasizing that such decisions might have repercussions in crucial moments.
Key Points:
- Islamabad United has won two out of five games in PSL 9, with perceived shortcomings in their tactical approach.
- In the recent match against Karachi Kings, where United aimed to restrict the opposition, Karachi managed to score 164 on a slow pitch.
- Misbah criticized the team for not optimizing their bowling resources, specifically questioning the deployment of Naseem Shah and the decision to give the last over to youngster Hunain Shah, which proved costly.
- The former captain pointed out that spinners were not completing their overs on a pitch favoring them.
- Misbah expressed concern that such decisions could have repercussions in crucial moments and haunt Islamabad United in important matches.
- Despite Islamabad’s bowling challenges, their victory was credited to the opening pair of Colin Munro and Alex Hales, who dominated Karachi’s bowling attack with a 108-run partnership.
- Munro’s aggressive innings of 82 runs off 47 balls, including four sixes and eight fours, played a crucial role in Islamabad’s successful chase.
- Karachi Kings tried to stage a recovery with Kieron Pollard’s unbeaten 48 off 28 balls and Mohammad Irfan Khan’s supportive 27 not out off 22 deliveries.
- Islamabad United successfully chased the target in the 19th over, courtesy of Agha Salman (25*) and skipper Shadab Khan (10*).
- Karachi’s Hasan Ali, Tabraiz Shamsi, and Mohammad Nawaz managed to take one wicket each.
Conclusion:
Misbah-ul-Haq’s critique brings attention to Islamabad United’s strategic decisions and resource management, urging the team to address these concerns to enhance their performance in crucial encounters during Pakistan Super League PSL 9. The upcoming matches will be crucial for Islamabad United to rectify their tactical approach and secure a strong position in the tournament.
Read More: https://flare.pk/2024/03/rawalpindi-psl-9-double-header-rain-concerns/
