The final phase of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2017 has begun with a bang, after Quetta Gladiators claimed a one run win over Peshawar Zalmis last night. Karachi Kings and Islamabad United would today decide who moves a step closer to the finale at Lahore.
Its De-ja Vu once again, as Kings faced Misbah's men in last years PSL playoff, where the United emerged victorious, and became the eventual winners of the tournament.
Would Kings riding on the momentum of two back to back wins be able to change their records and write history? Kings last win coming against the Islamabad United surely puts them at an edge though.
Karachi skipper Kumar Sangakkara has been quite influential thanks to his keep calm approach, which has allowed the team to bloom into an effective unit. With world renowned hitters Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard and a sound batting line up, including Babar Azam and Sangakkara himself, Sharjah could expect another flood of runs coming its way.
Islamabad on the other hand have veteran Misbah-ul-Haq as their skipper, who similar to his rival Sangakkara, has brought a calming effect to his side.
However, boosting one of the most potent bowling units of the league, including the red hot Muhammad Sami, who was instrumental in United's one run victory over Quetta Gladiators could surely tilt the equilibrium towards Misbah's side.
Zalmis enjoying the advantage of finishing at the top of points table, remain in hunt for the title, and would meet either the Kings or United in Friday's third playoff.
Squads
Karachi Kings: KC Sangakkara (capt), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, RS Bopara, CH Gayle, Hasan Mohsin, Imad Wasim, DPMD Jayawardene, Kashif Bhatti, Khurram Manzoor, R McLaren, Mohammad Amir, KA Pollard, Rahat Ali, Saifullah Bangash, Shahzaib Hasan, Shoaib Malik, Sohail Khan, Usama Mir, Usman Khan
Islamabad United: Misbah ul Haq (capt), Amad Butt, Asif Ali, S Badree, SW Billings, BM Duckett, ST Finn, BJ Haddin, Hussain Talat, Imran Khalid, Khalid Latif, Mohammad Irfan, Mohammad Sami, Rumman Raees, Saeed Ajmal, Shadab Khan, Sharjeel Khan, DR Smith, SR Watson, Zohaib Khan
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