Islamabad United Vs Karachi Kings, Match Preview
After a successful win from behind last night, Islamabad United finds themselves with another game the very next day. In ideal situations, two games in two days are what sides would avoid. However, the prospect may cause extra fatigue, and sides will have to make changes to ensure their players stay fresh. With the nature of the tournament, games on consecutive days have become a norm this season. Since Islamabad United is on top of the table and fresh off a momentum-building win, they won’t mind another game tonight. The side will undoubtedly be eager to get out and have a blast as they look to assert their position at the top.
On the other end, the Karachi Kings will be playing their first match in four games. Following a twelve-run defeat to the Multan Sultans, the gap may be appreciated by the side. The Kings are currently fourth on the points table and are dearly holding on for a playoff spot. The loss against Sultans may have made the equation more challenging, but the gap would have given the side a chance to regroup and consider their options up ahead.
Islamabad United Vs Karachi Kings, Team News
Islamabad United dominated the Quetta Gladiators with a ten-wicket win within ten overs a couple of nights ago. Khawaja and Munro were brilliant after failing in the previous game, and the two seemed to find their touch in the PSL. However, although they looked good one night, they fell in the next one. Both were dismissed early against the Qalandars, and the batting struggled. The collapse allowed United to test their middle-order strength, with Asif Ali making a magnificent 75. He was supported well by Iftikhar Ahmed, as the two got United to a reasonable score, which they defended with ease. The bowling did well collectively, and it changes to the side seem unlikely, despite an off day with the bat.
The Karachi Kings may consider some changes after their defeat to the Multan Sultans. Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim were expensive, while only Thisara Perera controlled the bowling. The batting was led by Babar Azam, who nearly won the game single-handedly. He finished with 85 but didn’t have much support. Wickets kept falling around him, and in the end, the task was too far for him to complete. With the batting coming off in the chase, the Kings may ponder some changes in the middle-order to help ease the pressure off Babar Azam.
Islamabad United Vs, Karachi Kings, Predicted XIs
Islamabad United: Usman Khawaja, Colin Munro, Hussain Talat, Rohail Nazir, Shadab Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Asif Ali, Fawad Ahmed, Muhammad Musa, Ali Khan, Mohammad Wasim Jr.
Karachi Kings: Sharjeel Khan, Babar Azam, Martin Guptill, Najibullah Zadran, Chadwick Walton, Thisara Perera, Imad Wasim, Qasim Akram, Waqas Maqsood, Mohammad Amir, Arshad Iqbal.
Islamabad United Vs Karachi Kings, Players to Watch out for
Martin Guptill:
The New Zealand opener was kept quiet in his first game of the UAE leg but is a champion player. With the dependency on Babar Azam, Martin Guptill can be the perfect player to step up and support the opener. He has the skill and credentials and will undoubtedly find a way to make an impact soon.
Usman Khawaja:
Struggled first, dominated next second, and struggled again; Usman Khawaja has been all over the place in the league so far. He hasn’t hit the consistency he is known for, but he is another player full of talent and can never be written off. After failing to score in the previous game, Khawaja will be determined to make amends tonight.
Islamabad United Vs Karachi Kings, Pitch Report
The Abu Dhabi pitch has been helpful to both batters and bowlers. The toss hasn’t provided much of an advantage as sides have won defending and chasing. The outfield is a fair size, and dew hasn’t set in much, which is helping the bowlers. However, with all the games played on the same ground, it is only a matter of time before the pitches start to wear and turn.