PSL 2021: Islamabad United’s Hasan Ali to miss remainder of the tournament

Fast bowler Hasan Ali has ruled himself out of the remaining matches in the 2021 Pakistan Super League (PSL). The 26-year-old decided to opt out of the tournament, citing “personal reasons”. Hasan has been the standout performer for Islamabad United in the ongoing T20 league. In six games, he is their leading wicket-taker with 10 scalps to his name.

He has bowled at an economy rate of 5.83, showing that apart from picking up wickets, he has also been able to keep a check on the run-scoring. Before leaving, the speedster also expressed gratitude to his team for supporting him through the challenging times.

I am thankful to Islamabad United for their support and understanding: Hasan Ali

“I want to say to all Islamabad United fans, unfortunately, due to personal reasons I have to pull out of the remaining PSL matches. Some things are more important than cricket and nothing is more important than family,” Hasan was quoted as saying in a statement, ESPNcricinfo reported.

“I am thankful to Islamabad United for their support and understanding. This team truly is a family that stands with you through thick and thin. I wish the team the very best of luck for the remaining PSL matches,” he stated.

Shadab Khan, the skipper of the United, reckoned that Hasan’s departure will be a massive blow for the team. However, he also had the pacer’s back over the personal family concerns.

“We understand Hasan’s situation right now, family always comes first. We wish Hasan the very best of luck. He will obviously be a huge loss to our team and the tournament, but some things are more important than cricket,” Shadab said.

The United are next set to lock horns with the Lahore Qalandars, led by Sohail Akhtar, on Sunday, June 13 at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. With eight points from six matches, Shadab’s men are placed second in the points table.

In their previous game, the United beat the Quetta Gladiators by 10 wickets with 10 overs to spare. Colin Munro’s unbeaten 36-ball 90 with 12 fours and five sixes took them over the finishing line.