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Islamabad United have issued an official statement clarifying the sudden departure of star batter Alex Hales from the remainder of their Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 campaign.
The franchise confirmed that the English opener will not be available for Qualifier 2 or a potential final due to pre-committed personal obligations.
In their statement, United revealed that due to a shift in the PSL schedule, Hales’ availability was only confirmed until May 18.
The 36-year-old is heading to Spain to attend the wedding of a close friend, an arrangement that was mutually agreed upon when his short-term contract was signed.
“Alex Hales has always been, and will continue to be, part of the Islamabad United family,” the franchise stated.
Hales also shared his thoughts, calling Islamabad United more than just a team.
“It always feels like family playing for United,” he said. “Coming back this season was a great experience, and I’m wishing the team the very best for the playoffs. I’ll be cheering for them from Spain.”
Despite playing just two matches this season, Hales certainly made an impact. His comeback knock against Karachi Kings on May 19 was nothing short of explosive.
He smashed an 88 off just 35 balls, peppered with six boundaries and eight towering sixes, at a strike rate of 251.42. His onslaught helped Islamabad post a mammoth 251/5, one of the highest totals in PSL history.
However, the joy was short-lived. In the Qualifier 1 clash against Quetta Gladiators, Hales fell for a second-ball duck as United faltered in their 210-run chase, eventually getting bowled out for 179.
With that loss, the defending champions missed their direct route to the final and will now face the winner of the Eliminator between Karachi Kings and Lahore Qalandars in Qualifier 2, scheduled for May 23 at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
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