Islamabad United's PSL 2024 Roster: Comprehensive Lineup of Players and Draft Selections

After a decent finish in the 2023 edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), the two-time champions have significantly revamped their squad which is reflected in the new list of Islamabad United team players.

Islamabad United has come to the PSL 2024 season with a strong set of players that provide balance and an X factor to their squad.

Islamabad United PSL 2024 Full Squad

1.    Shadab Khan (c)
2.    Naseem Shah
3.    Imad Wasim
4.    Azam Khan
5.    Faheem Ashraf
6.    Alex Hales
7.    Colin Munro
8.    Rumman Raees
9.    Jordan Cox
10.    Tymal Mills
11.    Salman Ali Agha
12.    Matthew Forde
13.    Qasim Akram
14.    Shahab Khan
15.    Hunain Shah
16.    Ubaid Shah
17.    Shamul Hussain
18.    Tom Curran

Image credit: X (Islamabad United)

With Shadab Khan the designated Islamabad United captain, he was sure to get picked in the pre-draft process. Apart from the all-rounder, ISU also boasts of the service of premier pace bowler Naseem Shah, who will provide the zip to their bowling attack. Hard-hitters Alex Hales and Colin Munro have also been retained from the gold category and will be responsible for giving fast starts to the team.

Image credit: X (Islamabad United)

Islamabad United is widely believed to have the best draft picks in PSL 2024, with England’s Jordan Cox and Tymal Mills providing experience and stability to the side. Apart from them, veteran Tom Curran will also be the player to watch out for with West Indies’ Matthew Forde a good option to have on the bench.

Image credit: X (Islamabad United)

In a strategic move, Islamabad has prioritized bolstering their bowling department for the upcoming season, addressing the void left by the departure of three key bowlers – Hasan Ali, Abrar Ahmed, and Mohammad Wasim Jr., all of whom were traded before the PSL 9 draft. The team has fortified its bowling arsenal with the inclusion of seasoned campaigners such as Rumman Raees, Naseem Shah, Tymal Mills, Shadab Khan, Faheem Ashraf, and Imad Wasim. Additionally, they have added promising talents by acquiring the services of the two younger brothers of Naseem Shah, Hunain and Ubaid Shah. This strategic reshaping aims to ensure a well-rounded and potent bowling unit for Islamabad United in the upcoming season.

Islamabad United squad: Strengths

Islamabad United boasts a formidable team with a robust batting lineup. The presence of power hitters like Alex Hales, Colin Munro, Jordan Cox, Muhammad Waseem, and Haider Ali ensures a well-rounded and powerful batting unit. Additionally, the inclusion of versatile all-rounders such as Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim, and Agha Salman adds depth and flexibility to their batting arsenal.

Image credit: X (Islamabad United)

On the bowling front, Islamabad United possesses a well-rounded and solid attack. Their pace department features quality bowlers like Naseem Shah, Ubaid Shah, Rumman Raees, Tymal Mills, and Obed McCoy, providing a diverse range of skills. Complementing the pace, the spin department, led by Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim, and Agha Salman, further strengthens their bowling lineup. This balanced combination of potent batting and a versatile bowling attack positions Islamabad United as a strong contender in the cricketing arena.

Islamabad United squad: Weaknesses & Threats

Shadab Khan's recent performances have not lived up to expectations, raising concerns about his impact on the team. Struggling with a lack of form, there are apprehensions that his leadership skills might also be affected, potentially influencing the team's performance in the upcoming tournament. Khan has been the longest-serving captain of the team, taking over from Misbah-ul-Haq but he hasn’t lived up to the expectations.

On the other hand, Naseem Shah makes a comeback to cricket in this tournament after a prolonged injury-induced hiatus. Entrusted with leading the pace bowling unit, much hinges on his performance for the team's success. However, his history of injuries poses a significant threat, as the team's prospects could be severely compromised in his absence. The team management will likely tread cautiously to manage and mitigate the risks associated with Naseem Shah's injury-prone past.

Players to Watch out for

Returning for his second consecutive year with Islamabad United, Alex Hales aims to extend his impressive run in franchise leagues. With notable performances in the Big Bash and ILT20, Hales brings undeniable talent, making him a key asset for the team.

Image credit: X (Islamabad United)

Haider Ali, secured as a round four supplementary pick, garnered widespread support from United's fans despite missing out in the initial draft. The 23-year-old batsman, with prior stints at Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings, sees this tournament as an opportune moment to reaffirm his potential for a spot in the Pakistan team. Anticipate significant contributions from Ali as he seizes this chance to make a lasting impact.

Conclusion

The composition of Islamabad United's squad lacks creative ingenuity, raising concerns about a couple of international players selected more for their reputation than recent form, which may pose a challenge. Tymal Mills, while displaying brilliance on certain occasions, has shown inconsistency and can be expensive on off days, with limited reliable alternatives if key players underperform. The team's prospects heavily rely on the performance of stalwarts like Alex Hales and Naseem Shah. Placing substantial expectations on a handful of players appears to be a risky strategy, highlighting the team's dependence on key individuals for success.

Having said all that, the Islamabad team is comprised of capable names who are capable of winning games single-handedly on their days. Hence, Islamabad United coach Mike Hesson will be greatly responsible for assembling a winning combination that would go all the way.