Islamabad United: crafting a legacy in HBL PSL with thrilling cricket
By our correspondent
Islamabad United, a franchise renowned for its distinctive style in the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL), has created a legacy marked by a thrilling brand of cricket. Owned by Ali Naqvi and Amna Naqvi, the team has consistently combined strategic brilliance and data-driven methods while assembling a squad of some of the most skilled players in T20 cricket.
Rehan-ul-Haq, Islamabad United’s General Manager, reflected on the team’s journey, stating, “HBL PSL has been an amazing journey. When it started, we knew it would be big but didn’t know it would have such a huge impact.” He emphasized the significant achievement of winning the inaugural season in the UAE and the realization of the league’s enormity upon landing in Pakistan.
The team’s journey was further illuminated by Rehan, who recalled memorable moments, stating, “It has only gotten bigger & better. When we played our first home game in Rawalpindi, chants of ‘Ronchi-Ronchi’ were so loud that we felt it in our dugout. Nothing compares to the passion of Pakistan fans in stadiums.”
Islamabad United has set itself apart with its adeptness in identifying and nurturing young talent, commitment to player development, and attentive support towards player well-being. The franchise was the first to appoint former emerging players as captains, namely Rumman Raees and Shadab Khan. Moreover, the team has provided comprehensive care for its players, demonstrated by their support for Rumman during his injury recovery.
Rumman expressed gratitude for the support, saying, “During my injury, Islamabad United appointed me as a bowling consultant and facilitated my rehabilitation with their physiotherapist. I have forged a strong bond with Islamabad United as a result.”
The commitment to grooming local talent has borne fruit, with players like Shadab, Rumman, Asif Ali, and Mohammad Wasim Jnr making their mark in United’s lineup and representing Pakistan. Islamabad United has consistently focused on bolstering their batting line-up and learning from their experiences to refine their squad composition.
The journey that began with a challenging start in the first edition of HBL PSL, losing four out of six group stage matches, culminated in a triumphant title win. Islamabad United rebounded by winning five consecutive matches and securing the title. Subsequent editions saw the team achieving further success, with impactful performances from key players defining their legacy.
In HBL PSL 2018, Luke Ronchi’s impactful batting set a new standard, and Asif Ali’s crucial sixes in the final secured Islamabad their second title. Despite the restrained celebrations that were a trademark, the city’s residents turned out in large numbers to celebrate the IU Victory Parade.
Looking ahead to HBL PSL 9, Islamabad United has embraced a calculated, albeit aggressive, approach in squad selection. The top-order is loaded with potent batters like Alex Hales, Jordan Cox, and Colin Munro. The middle-order features dynamic hitters, and the pace and spin bowling departments have been strategically strengthened. The team introduced a program called “Women Empowerment Champions” and renewed their association with Diana Baig, Aliya Riaz, and Bismah Maroof, emphasizing their commitment to gender-inclusive talent.
Amna Naqvi, emphasizing the commitment to fostering gender equality, stated, “We are thrilled to welcome Bismah Maroof, Aliya Riaz, and Diana Baig to Islamabad United. This collaboration underscores our commitment to fostering an environment where talent knows no gender boundaries.” The legacy of Islamabad United continues to evolve, combining excellence on the field with a commitment to empowerment and inclusivity.
