Islamabad United’s Imad Wasim might not have had a standout season in PSL 2024, but when the pressure mounted in Eliminator 1 against Quetta Gladiators, he transformed into the match-winner his team craved.
United, batting first, set a competitive target of 174/9 thanks to contributions from Martin Guptill and Salman Ali Agha. While Islamabad’s bowlers did well to restrict Quetta, it was Imad Wasim’s spell that truly turned the tide.
Quetta began with the score at a precarious 16/5 losing the dangerous opening pair of Jason Roy and Saud Shakeel for one and duck, respectively. Wasim, who picked Shakeel, also cleaned up the middle order, removing Khushdil Shah and Rilee Rossouw for just five runs each.
His economical bowling, conceding only 12 runs in his four overs, choked the chase and put the game firmly in Islamabad’s grasp. This performance was a stark contrast to Wasim’s overall form in the league. Throughout the season, his bowling lacked its usual bite.
However, when the stakes were highest, he rose to the occasion, proving his experience and leadership qualities. His three wickets and miserly spell at an economy of three not only secured the victory but also propelled Islamabad United into Eliminator 2, where they will face Peshawar Zalmi on March 16th. Islamabad’s batting innings was anchored by Martin Guptill’s 56 and a quickfire 31 from Salman Ali Agha.
For Quetta, pacer Amir and spinner Akeal Hosein picked up two wickets each. Chasing 175, Quetta’s batting order collapsed under Imad Wasim’s brilliance.
Despite a valiant fifty from Omair Bin Yusuf and a promising knock from Akeal Hosein, Quetta fell short by 39 runs. Islamabad will now look to carry this momentum into their crucial clash against Peshawar Zalmi.
Also, see:
PSL 2024: Low attendance at Karachi leg raises concerns
