PSL 9: Misbah criticizes Islamabad United's tactical flaws, citing Naseem Shah

Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq has raised concerns about Islamabad United's management of resources, particularly citing their handling of pacer Naseem Shah in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine.

United, having won only two out of five games played, have faced criticism for tactical shortcomings leading to losses.

In their recent match against Karachi Kings, United struggled to contain the opposition, allowing them to score 164 runs comfortably on a sluggish pitch. 

Speaking on a local sports channel, Misbah pointed out that key bowlers like skipper Shadab Khan and Agha Salman didn't bowl their full quota of overs, while inexperienced bowlers were entrusted with crucial moments, resulting in costly overs.

"The spinners are not bowling their overs completely on a pitch where it is assisting them," Misbah said.

Misbah emphasized the importance of utilizing resources effectively, especially in crucial moments of the game. He highlighted that such decisions could prove detrimental to Islamabad United's performance in critical matches.

"They are not utilising their resources properly in the bowling department. They don't know where and how to use Naseem. They gave last over to youngster [Hunain Shah] which went for plenty," he further added.

Furthermore, Misbah warned that despite their batsmen compensating for the bowling lapses, these tactical shortcomings could come back to haunt Islamabad United in crucial encounters.

"At one stage, 140 was looking par but still they managed to score 165 which was covered by their openers in batting but these things can haunt Islamabad United in important matches," he concluded.

It is worth noting that key contributors to Islamabad's victory against Karachi were the opening duo of Colin Munro and Alex Hales, who decimated Karachi's bowling attack. Together, they forged a formidable partnership of 108 runs off just 69 balls for the first wicket.