Islamabad United have suffered a major blow ahead of their crucial Qualifier 2 fixture in Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10, as English opener Alex Hales has returned home due to personal reasons.
Hales, a regular match-winner for United in previous seasons, confirmed his departure through Instagram, thanking the franchise and extending his best wishes for the remainder of the tournament. His exit comes just a day before United are set to face either Karachi Kings or Lahore Qalandars in Lahore on May 23.
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Though Hales only played two matches this season, his contribution was instantly impactful. On May 19, he struck a blistering 88 off just 35 deliveries against Karachi Kings, an innings laced with six fours and eight sixes, helping United post the season’s highest total of 251.
However, his form dipped in the following match, where he was dismissed for a second-ball duck against Quetta Gladiators in Qualifier 1. United, chasing 210, were bowled out for 179, missing a direct spot in the final.
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With Hales’ departure, the responsibility now falls on senior players like Shadab Khan, Azam Khan, and Colin Munro to lead the batting effort in the knockout clash. Islamabad, chasing a historic third PSL title, will need to reshuffle their plans in the absence of their seasoned overseas campaigner.
The Qualifier 2 will be held under lights at Gaddafi Stadium, with the winner advancing to face Quetta Gladiators in the PSL 10 final.