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Introduction
Islamabad United, the two-time Pakistan Super League (PSL) champions, are gearing up for an exciting PSL 2025 season. With a well-balanced squad consisting of experienced players and young talent, the team aims to reclaim the trophy. In this article, we will provide an in-depth analysis of Islamabad United’s squad, key players, match schedule, strategies, and more.
Team Identity: Strength, Power, and Determination
Islamabad United’s journey began in 2016 when the franchise revealed its team logo and identity. The iconic lion in their logo symbolizes the strength, courage, and power that Islamabad United stands for. Their primary colours—red, orange, and a light brown shade—are not just a visual statement; they represent the fiery passion of the players and the calm, strategic approach they take to succeed.
Throughout the years, Islamabad United has established a strong brand presence. They made a statement with their star ambassadors like Fawad Khan, who represented the team from 2016 to 2018. Ali Zafar was also a significant ambassador during the 2016 season. Adding a new dimension to their brand, Islamabad United introduced Momina Mustehsan as their Empowerment Champion in 2017, promoting equality and empowerment in the sport.
Their journey wouldn’t be complete without music. Islamabad United’s anthems have been a key part of their success. “Chakka Choka,” sung by Ali Zafar in the first season, captured the hearts of fans. Later, in 2017, the team released the anthems “Cricket Jorray Pakistan,” by Momina Mustehsan, and “Kitna Rola Daalay Ga,” by Abdullah Qureshi, which became fan favorites.
Sponsorship and Partnerships: Backing by Big Brands
Islamabad United’s success is not just a result of their on-field performances but also their robust network of sponsors and partners. Over the years, they have forged strong relationships with top-tier brands that help fuel their success.
In the 2016 season, Dostea became their shirt sponsor, with Dunya News joining as the chest sponsor. Over the years, big names like Q Mobile, JS Bank, PTCL, Yayvo, and Igloo became partners. These collaborations have only grown stronger in 2024, with Foodpanda and Tim Hortons stepping up as the primary sponsors.
In addition to these, Tetra Pak, Hum News, and TCL are among the key partners, ensuring that Islamabad United’s brand remains visible both in the stadium and across media platforms. These partnerships have played a crucial role in the team’s continued success and have ensured a constant stream of financial support to help grow the team’s reach and influence.
Management and Coaching: The Backbone of Success
Behind every successful team is a strong management and coaching staff, and Islamabad United is no exception. The team has worked with some of the best minds in the sport, and their contributions have been vital in shaping the team’s success.
- Manager: Rehan-ul-Haq
- Head Coach: Mike Hesson
- Batting Coach: Ashley Wright
- Bowling Coach: Azhar Mahmood
- Performance Coach: Hanif Malik
- Analyst: Ben Jones
- Team Doctor: Jason Pilgram
The experienced coaching team, led by Mike Hesson, will play a critical role in preparing Islamabad United for the challenges of the PSL 2025 season.
Islamabad United Squad 2025 – Full Player List
Islamabad United has built a strong squad for PSL 2025, retaining key players and making crucial signings. Below is the complete squad.
Platinum Players
- Matthew Short (Australia)
- Shadab Khan (Pakistan)
- Naseem Shah (Pakistan)
Diamond Players
- Jason Holder (West Indies)
- Azam Khan (Pakistan)
Gold Players
- Ben Dwarshuis (Australia)
- Salman Irshad (Pakistan)
- Haider Ali (Pakistan)
Silver Players
- Andries Gous (USA)
- Colin Munro (New Zealand)
- Mohammad Nawaz (Pakistan)
- Rumman Raees (Pakistan)
Emerging Players
- Hunain Shah (Pakistan)
- Saad Masood (Pakistan)
Supplementary Players
- Riley Meredith (Australia)
- Rassie van der Dussen (South Africa)
The squad features a solid mix of local and international players, ensuring a balanced lineup in both batting and bowling departments.
Islamabad United Batting Line-up
Islamabad United boasts a powerful batting lineup, with aggressive top-order batsmen and dependable middle-order players.
Key Batsmen in Islamabad United 2025
- Matthew Short – A dynamic Australian top-order batsman.
- Colin Munro is a versatile batter who is capable of scoring quickly.
- Shadab Khan – All-rounder, providing stability in the middle order.
- Azam Khan is a power hitter capable of finishing matches.
- Haider Ali – A young and talented Pakistani batter.
- Rassie van der Dussen – South African batter, known for his consistency.
Islamabad United Bowling Attack
Islamabad United has a lethal bowling attack, consisting of experienced pacers and quality spinners.
Leading Bowlers in Islamabad United Squad
- Naseem Shah – Young pacer, known for his express pace.
- Jason Holder – West Indies all-rounder, bringing experience.
- Mohammad Nawaz – Left-arm spinner, useful in T20 formats.
- Salman Irshad – Emerging pacer with wicket-taking ability.
- Rumman Raees – Experienced left-arm fast bowler.
- Riley Meredith – Australian pacer known for his pace and aggression.
Islamabad United Playing XI for PSL 2025
Based on the squad composition, the best possible playing XI for Islamabad United could be:
- Matthew Short
- Andries Gous (WK)
- Colin Munro
- Shadab Khan (C)
- Azam Khan
- Jason Holder
- Mohammad Nawaz
- Naseem Shah
- Rumman Raees
- Salman Irshad
- Riley Meredith
This lineup ensures a balanced approach with strong batting and bowling options.
Islamabad United’s Performance Over the Years
Islamabad United has established itself as one of the most consistent teams in PSL history. With two PSL titles (2016 and 2018) and a strong playoff presence, they have proven their mettle time and again.
- 2016: Champions (7 wins, 4 losses)
- 2017: Playoffs (4th position, 4 wins, 5 losses)
- 2018: Champions (8 wins, 3 losses)
- 2019: Playoffs (3rd position, 6 wins, 6 losses)
- 2020: League stage (3 wins, 6 losses)
- 2021: Playoffs (3rd position, 8 wins, 4 losses)
- 2022: Playoffs (3rd position, 5 wins, 7 losses)
- 2023: Playoffs (4th position, 6 wins, 5 losses)
- 2024: Champions (8 wins, 4 losses)
With a winning percentage of 55%, Islamabad United has consistently been one of the most successful franchises in the league. Their performance speaks volumes about their resilience and commitment to excellence.
Islamabad United vs Other Teams – Key Rivalries
Islamabad United shares intense rivalries with other PSL teams. Here are some key matchups:
Islamabad United vs Karachi Kings
A thrilling contest between two powerhouses is often decided in the final overs.
Islamabad United vs Lahore Qalandars
A battle between Islamabad’s tactical brilliance and Lahore’s aggressive approach.
Islamabad United vs Peshawar Zalmi
A clash featuring some of the best T20 cricketers in the world.
Islamabad United Players to Watch in PSL 2025
Some players who are expected to shine this season include:
- Shadab Khan – Captain and key all-rounder.
- Matthew Short – Explosive top-order batter.
- Jason Holder – Experienced all-rounder from West Indies.
- Azam Khan – Hard-hitting batter, ideal for finishing matches.
- Naseem Shah – Young fast bowler, bringing express pace.
Islamabad United Fan Engagement & Merchandise
Islamabad United has a massive fan base. Supporters can engage with the team through:
- Official fan club memberships
- Social media platforms (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook)
- Exclusive merchandise (jerseys, caps, and more)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When was Islamabad United founded?
Islamabad United was founded in 2015 as one of the original teams in the Pakistan Super League.
Who will be the captain of Islamabad United in 2025?
Shadab Khan is the captain of Islamabad United for the 2025 season.
What are the team’s primary colours?
The team’s primary colours are red, orange, and light brown.
Which sponsors are associated with Islamabad United in 2025?
Key sponsors for the 2025 season include Foodpanda, Tim Hortons, Tetra Pak, and Hum News.
Who are some of the prominent players in the 2025 squad?
Some prominent players in the 2025 squad include Shadab Khan, Haider Ali, Colin Munro, and Naseem Shah.
What is Islamabad United’s home ground?
Islamabad United plays its home matches at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Has Islamabad United won the PSL title?
Yes, Islamabad United has won the PSL title twice, in 2016 and 2018.
Who are the main sponsors for Islamabad United in 2024?
For the 2024 season, the main sponsors are Foodpanda and Tim Hortons.
What is the anthem of Islamabad United?
The team’s anthem “Chakka Choka” was sung by Ali Zafar in the first season, followed by other anthems such as “Cricket Jorray Pakistan” and “Kitna Rola Daalay Ga.”
Who will be the head coach of Islamabad United in 2025?
The head coach for Islamabad United in 2025 is Mike Hesson.
Conclusion
Islamabad United enters PSL 2025 with a well-balanced squad, a strong mix of local and international talent, and an aggressive strategy. Fans can expect thrilling performances, nail-biting matches, and top-quality cricket from the team.
