ISLAMABAD: South Africa’s top-order batsman Rassie van der Dussen and former England opener Alex Hales have re-joined defending champions Islamabad United for the remainder of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10, set to resume from 17 to 25 May.
Van der Dussen, initially selected in the Supplementary category during the PSL 10 draft earlier this year, had to withdraw due to personal reasons and was temporarily replaced by West Indies’ Kyle Mayers.
At the time, United’s head coach Mike Hesson had voiced support, stating: “We fully stand with Rassie and his family. He’s going through a tough period, and cricket takes a backseat in such situations.”
However, the South African batter is now set to re-join the squad as Islamabad United push for a place in the playoffs. The team currently sits third on the points table with 10 points from nine matches and needs a win in their final league-stage game against Karachi Kings on 19 May at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium to secure a top-four finish.
World-class performer
“We are delighted to welcome South Africa’s star batter Rassie van der Dussen back for the remainder of the HBL PSL X,” Islamabad United stated. “A world-class performer with a superb record across formats, Rassie brings invaluable experience, consistency, and professionalism to the squad.”
Meanwhile, Alex Hales has also re-joined the side and expressed his excitement about returning to Pakistan. The Englishman, who has been a key figure for United in previous editions, highlighted his strong connection with the franchise.
“Islamabad United has always held a special place in my heart,” said Hales. “They were the first PSL team I played for in Pakistan, and the support from the fans and management has always been phenomenal. I had to shuffle a few commitments due to the revised PSL schedule, but I’m thrilled to be back wearing the red shirt. Hopefully, I can contribute and help the team chase another title.”
Islamabad United’s current squad for the PSL 10 remainder includes:
Shadab Khan and Naseem Shah (Platinum), Azam Khan, Imad Wasim, Jason Holder (Diamond), Haider Ali, Salman Ali Agha, Ben Dwarshuis (Gold), Colin Munro, Rumman Raees, Andries Gous, Mohammad Nawaz, Salman Irshad (Silver), Hunain Shah, Saad Masood (Emerging), Kyle Mayers, Mohammad Faiq, Sahibzada Farhan, Muhammad Shahzad, Alex Hales, Rassie van der Dussen, and Riley Meredith (Supplementary).
