Islamabad United acquires Imad, Kings land Hasan

Islamabad United acquires Imad, Kings land Hasan

Kings also parts way with Amir

Asher Butt

LAHORE: In a significant player exchange, Islamabad United has acquired all-rounder Imad Wasim from Karachi Kings in exchange for their second-round silver pick. Additionally, fast bowler Hasan Ali has moved from Islamabad United to Karachi Kings in the Diamond category.

Imad Wasim, the captain of Karachi Kings' HBL PSL 5 winning team, will now represent Islamabad United in the upcoming ninth edition of the tournament. His impressive performance in HBL PSL 8, where he was named the All-Rounder of the tournament, made him an attractive target for Islamabad United.

Following Imad Wasim's departure, Karachi Kings has also parted ways with fast bowler Mohammad Amir. Sources indicate that Amir has finalized a move to Quetta Gladiators for the upcoming PSL season. This decision is reportedly influenced by Amir's strong bond with Quetta Gladiators' captain Sarfaraz Ahmed.

Karachi Kings, seeking to restructure their lineup after Imad Wasim's exit, has reportedly approached Multan Sultans to negotiate a trade involving batsman Shaan Masood. Sources suggest that Shaan Masood may be appointed as the captain for Karachi Kings in PSL 9.

The drafting for PSL 9 is scheduled to take place on December 13 in Lahore. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has informed the franchises of this date, marking a crucial milestone in the lead-up to the highly anticipated cricketing event. The upcoming PSL season is sure to be filled with intrigue as teams strategize player moves and reshuffle their lineups through the transfer market.

PSL 9 Schedule and Venue Uncertainty

The franchise owners of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) are expressing concerns regarding the scheduling of the ninth edition of the tournament and the delay in finalizing the venues.

A consensus is yet to be reached on whether PSL 9 matches will be held in Pakistan or the UAE. Due to the country's general elections, there was a proposal to shift the matches to the UAE, but no definitive decision has been made.

Sources reveal that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) intends to consult with the teams before making a decision on the matter. A letter has also been sent to the government seeking guidance in this regard.

Sources indicate that two proposed schedules have been prepared considering matches in Pakistan. One schedule proposes matches in four venues: Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi, while the other suggests matches only in the first two cities. Both schedules were shared with the franchises yesterday.

Sources further indicate that the event is proposed to begin on February 18 in Lahore, with the intention of holding the final on March 19 in Karachi. A decision on this matter is expected soon.

While many foreign cricketers prefer playing in the UAE, not all franchise owners agree. Some want matches in Pakistan, while others prefer the UAE.

Mirza Tahir Baig, Rumman Raees, and Mir Hamza Relegated to Silver Category

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has informed the franchises that Mirza Tahir Baig of Lahore Qalandars, Rumman Raees of Islamabad United, and Mir Hamza of Karachi Kings have been successfully relegated from the Gold to the Silver category ahead of the HBL PSL 2024 Player Draft.

This decision is part of the PCB's ongoing efforts to maintain a balanced and competitive player pool across all PSL teams. The relegation of these three players will provide opportunities for younger and emerging talents to showcase their skills on the PSL stage.