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Defending champions Islamabad United have been dealt an early blow ahead of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 opener, as Australian wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey has opted out of the tournament.
United are all set to begin their title defense today against Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. But just hours before the big clash, news broke that Carey would not be joining the squad due to domestic commitments in Australia.
Carey was roped in as a partial replacement for South Africa’s Rassie van der Dussen, who is yet to arrive in Pakistan.
The management of Islamabad United has now confirmed that Carey will not be available for the upcoming season, a decision that weighs heavily on the team. They have also shared encouraging news that Van der Dussen is anticipated to join the squad shortly.
The loss of a seasoned player like Alex Carey, renowned for his composed demeanor and adeptness in high-stakes moments, creates a noticeable void in the team’s depth as they prepare to embark on the tournament.
His absence leaves a pivotal gap that will be felt on and off the field, as his experience is invaluable in guiding younger players through the pressures of competition.
PSL 10 will feature 34 matches between April 11 and May 18 across four venues — Lahore, Rawalpindi, Karachi, and Multan.
Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium is set to host 13 matches, including the two Eliminators and the final. Rawalpindi, which hosts tonight’s opener, will stage 11 games, including the first Qualifier.
Meanwhile, Karachi and Multan will each host five matches. The schedule also includes three double-headers — two on Saturdays and one on Labour Day (May 1).
Shadab Khan (c), 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, Alex Carey, Hunain Shah, Saad Masood, Riley Meredith, Rassie van der Dussen.
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