Islamabad United vs Quetta Gladiators: Takeaways From The Opening Game Of PSL 5

PSL 5 officially commenced yesterday with an Islamabad United vs Quetta Gladiators game. So, here is a look at a few takeaways from the inaugural encounter.

Read: Everything That Happened At The Opening Ceremony Of PSL 2020

Both Captains Disappoint During The Islamabad United vs Quetta Gladiators Game

Skippers from both sides were disappointing to say the least. While Sarfaraz Ahmed was at his usual best while leading the Gladiators; he looked pretty ordinary with the bat. He been out of the national team for a while now. So, it was expected that he must have worked on his power-hitting during the time away from international cricket to raise his credentials and stage another international comeback. Nevertheless, his performance with the bat was pretty below standard and hence, suggested that as of now, he is really no where close to where he should be while batting at the crucial number four position.

Shadab Khan in his first season as the skipper of franchise on the other hand was even worse. The pressure of captaincy it seems has already effected his performance as a bowler as he returned with dismal figures reading none for 46 in 3.3 overs at an economy rate of 13.14!

Read: Defending Champions Quetta Gladiators Will Need These Cricketers To Deliver During PSL 5

Youngsters Azam Khan, Mohd. Hasnain And Musa Khan Impress

While seniors disappointed, youngsters Azam Khan, Mohd. Hasnain and Musa Khan were pretty impressive. Hasnain bowled with decent pace to win the player of the match award for his four-for. Musa Khan on the other hand also performed decently to pick three important Gladiators’ wickets.

Still, Azam Khan’s fifty was perhaps the highlight of the evening. Son of former Pakistan captain i.e. Moin Khan (also the head coach of Quetta Gladiators); the 21 year old must have been under massive pressure to prove his worth in order to avoid allegations associating with nepotism. Nevertheless, the young batsman made the most out of the opportunity to showcase his talent and temperament during the 59 run knock that came of only 33 balls.

Read: Watch Out For These Cricketers From Islamabad United During PSL 5

Islamabad Might Find It Difficult

With a skipper who is clearly struggling in the new role; United will need some of their senior overseas cricketers like Luke Ronchi, Colin Ingram and Colin Munro etc. to raise their game. Islamabad United are historically poor starters still, they might not be able to take-off at any point during the tournament if the senior guys fail to consistently deliver.