An erratic season for Islamabad United

One has come to expect quality for Islamabad United. The Defending Champions are known for their stats based methodical approach. However, due to injuries and dip in the performance of local talent, Islamabad were unable to sustain their performance. Ian Bell, was a key pick but missed all but one game of the tournament. The form of Shadab was a worry too. Mohammad Sami, the newly appointed captain had to miss games due to injury too. In end, they proved that they are the third best side of the tournament, but not more.

Victory at long last for Quetta Gladiators

The one who out performed all  

No one player was dominant for United. Perhaps that also reflects on their results. Faheem Ashraf continued his excellent performance with the ball, picking up 21 wickets. His ability to control lengths make him a dangerous bowler irrespective of when he balls. However, in a couple of crunch moments, Faheem wasn’t able to deliver. He would be the 1^st to admit his short comings this season.

With the bat, it was perhaps Cameron Delport. After remaining under the radar at Lahore Qalandars, the South African really stamped his authority in the tournament with a 100. It was an innings filled with class and power play. He outscored Islamabad’s talisman, Luke Ronchi by 36 runs.

The one breakthrough star

Muhammad Musa came in the tournament with a reputation and was able to cement it further. While, he did go for runs on occasions, he showed real courage by taking up the ball in difficult situation. 8 wickets in 7 games, don’t do justice to his talents. He has all the ingredients to be a decent fast bowler, the coaching staff has a job in their hands.

The one who revived his career

Well, almost. Asif Ali who has a sickly child had one of his better season for United. He won them a game with the bat and was consistent in terms of six hitting. With 26 sixes, he was the highest 6 hitter in the tournament. He must have been disappointing at missing out for selection in the Pakistan series.

The one who lead

Injuries meant captaincy was shared between Mohammad Sami and Shadab Khan. In some games, the methods look odd such as trying to bowl Yorker length to Darren Sammy. Both captain were struggling a little bit with their own performance and didn’t conjure up any magic with tactical decision making. Next season, they might be looking for a new captain.