Just when Islamabad United fans were gearing up for the big PSL 10 opener, they were hit with an unexpected twist.
Alex Carey, the reliable Australian wicketkeeper-batter, has pulled out of the tournament—hours before United’s first game against Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Carey was signed as a partial replacement for South Africa’s Rassie van der Dussen, who hasn’t landed in Pakistan yet.
While fans were waiting to see at least someone from that duo in red, Islamabad United’s camp confirmed the bad news—Carey won’t be coming at all.
And just like that, Islamabad’s depth chart takes a hit before a single ball is bowled. He’s not just a skilled batter; he’s one of those guys who keeps calm when the pressure cooker is whistling. His presence could’ve made a difference, especially with younger players looking for someone steady in the middle order.
Islamabad United will now have to shuffle their plans, maybe even their batting order, as they go into their title defense with one less experienced head.
While Carey’s exit is a blow, there’s a silver lining—Rassie van der Dussen is expected to join the squad soon.
That’s a big boost. Rassie is known for his reliability and consistency, especially in white-ball cricket. His inclusion could give United the balance they desperately need after Carey’s withdrawal.
Despite this early hiccup, the show goes on. The 10th season of the Pakistan Super League kicks off with a bang tonight in Rawalpindi.
Here’s How United is Shaping Up Without Carey:
Shadab Khan (captain), Matthew Short, Naseem Shah, Imad Wasim, Azam Khan, Jason Holder, Ben Dwarhuis, Salman Ali Agha, Haider Ali, Andries Gous, Colin Munro, Muhammad Nawaz, Rumman Raees, Salman Irshad, Hunain Shah, Saad Masood, Riley Meredith, and Rassie van der Dussen (expected soon).
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