The Stars of Peshawar Zalmi – Past and Present
Several players of international and local repute have contributed to the success of ISLU over the years. Here is a list of Islamabad United’s most influential figures.
Kamran Akmal
Wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal’s international career ended a while back, but he continues to bring great value at domestic level. Akmal has only ever played for Zalmi in the PSL and he has scored the most runs in the tournament – not just for his franchise but overall.
Wahab Riaz
Left-arm seamer Wahab Riaz has participated in other global T20 competitions like the Mzansi Super League in South Africa, but the PSL and Zalmi are his home. He has taken the most wickets in the history of the Pakistan Super League and will look to add to that impressive tally again.
Darren Sammy
West Indian all-rounder Darren Sammy captained Zalmi for before becoming head coach. He is among their top 10 run-scorers and just outside the top 10 wicket-takers, so has evidently came to understand how to bat and bowl on some tricky wickets in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates.
Shahid Afridi
Leg-spinning all-rounder Shahid Afridi, like he has done for other leagues around the world, has had a massive impact on the Pakistan Super League. His brand value has been massive and, for Zalmi, he has churned out plenty of runs and wickets. That quicker arm ball of his is a particular favourite.
Liam Dawson
England all-rounder Liam Dawson is probably one of the lesser-known names on the global T20 circuit, but he has adopted Zalmi well. His punchy batting and clever spin bowling have won many matches for his PSL franchise.
Mohammad Ashgar
Left-arm spinner Mohammad Ashgar hasn’t yet been capped at international level. Perhaps he, like Haris Rauf, will go on to achieve national colours on the back of some fine form in the Pakistan Super League. He is a major factor in their bowling department.