Islamabad United were dealt a significant setback on Thursday as star English batter Alex Hales departed the squad ahead of Qualifier 2 of the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10 due to personal commitments.
The seasoned opener, who has been a vital cog in United’s batting line-up over the years, confirmed his exit via an Instagram post, extending gratitude to the franchise and expressing his best wishes for the remainder of the campaign.
Hales’ departure comes just a day before the crucial Qualifier 2 clash, where United are scheduled to face the winner of the Eliminator between Karachi Kings and Lahore Qalandars at the Gaddafi Stadium on May 23.
While Hales’ presence in PSL 10 was limited to just two matches, his impact was felt almost immediately. The Englishman announced his return in emphatic fashion with a blistering 88 off 35 balls against Karachi Kings on May 19 — a knock punctuated by six boundaries and eight towering sixes. His innings, played at a staggering strike rate of 251.42, helped United amass a formidable total of 251 for five, the highest of the season.
However, fortunes took a swift turn in the Qualifier 1 against Quetta Gladiators, where Hales was dismissed for a second-ball duck. Islamabad, chasing a target of 210, faltered in their pursuit and were eventually bundled out for 179, thus missing their first opportunity to secure a spot in the final.
This marks Islamabad United’s first defeat in the knockout stages, placing additional pressure on the side ahead of the do-or-die encounter in Qualifier 2. Hales’ absence is expected to test the depth of United’s batting, which now hinges on the likes of Shadab Khan, Azam Khan, and Colin Munro to step up in the high-stakes clash.
The franchise, which is eyeing a record third PSL title, will now have to recalibrate its strategy without one of its most experienced overseas performers.
Hales, who has featured for Islamabad United across multiple seasons, has been a fan favourite for his aggressive stroke play and consistency at the top of the order. His departure, though not entirely unexpected — as he was originally slated to play just two games — leaves a void at a critical juncture in the tournament.
Qualifier 2 is scheduled to be played under lights at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday, with the winner set to meet Quetta Gladiators in the final of PSL 10.
