PSL 2022 Team Preview: Karachi Kings

Introduction

Karachi Kings (KK) is considered one of the gritty franchise teams of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Since their first edition, they have made it to the playoffs in every edition but could only lift the title once that happened in 2020.

The KK adorned PSL-5 under the captaincy of Imad Wasim. KK effortlessly subdued their arch-rivals Lahore Qalandars by five wickets. Chasing the target of unimposing 134 runs, Karachi’s Babar Azam notched up 64 runs and steered his respective side to the winning podium.

However, in 2021 KK couldn’t replicate the heroics and failed to defend the title. They made it through the playoffs but faced defeat from Peshawar Zalmi in the eliminator round.

The seventh season of PSL is about to begin, starting from the 27th of the ongoing month. This season KK will see a new leadership role. Babar Azam will be replacing Imad Wasim in the role. Babar’s leadership skills were eulogized and applauded by many cricket experts and fans. Notably, in 2021, the Pakistan team became a formidable force under the captaincy of Babar. The Lahore-born is the only captain to beat India in the World Cups. Moreover, the boys-in-green notched up 20 victories in the T20I format of the game.

So, it was natural to see Babar taking over the leadership role.

Karachi Kings Squad for the seventh edition of the PSL

Karachi has got some good guys who will enhance their batting lineup. Bowlers might not click as far as the current squad is concerned, but you never know, as, in cricket, there is also a ‘luck factor.’

KK’s skipper is the best batsman of the T20 format. The 27-year-old successfully chalked up runs which also included his maiden T20I ton. His opening partner, Sharjeel Khan, is counted as one of the top hitters in the domestic circuit of Pakistan.

Moreover, in the middle order, Afghanistan’s Mohammad Nabi and England’s Lewis Gregory will have to share the bulk of the responsibility. Being seasoned campaigners, they know the art of finishing the games in crunch situations.

Karachi also got the services of Sahibzada Farhan, who had a stellar 2021. Moreover, Joe Clarke also is in good form as he has notched up some decent innings in the ongoing season of the Big Bash League.

Overall, Karachi’s batting lineup is gritty and can subdue any opponent.

Once again, the bowling attack of KK will be led by Mohammad Amir. The left-arm pacer wasn’t up to the mark in the last season, but he will surely try to make a strong comeback. Mohammad Ilyas and Umaid Asif will accompany Amir. Jordan Thompson is also a decent bowling allrounder that can assist KK to the victory stage.

Strength

Karachi has got a good batting line-up. For example, Babar Azam has been a top-performer in the limited-overs of the game. Moreover, Joe Clarke has been in sensational form in the ongoing season of BBL. Mohammad Nabi and  Lewis Gregory can produce a late blitz whenever required. Overall, a good batting unit.

Weakness

Karachi’s weakness is their bowling attack. They haven’t got enough options to subdue any opponent. The leading paceman Mohammad Amir is struggling to find his form. However, Mohammad Ilyas or Umaid Asif might turn the tide of Kings.

Karachi Kings Squad 2022

Babar Azam (C), Chris Jordan, Imad Wasim, Mohammad Amir, Lewis Gregory (Diamond), Mohammad Nabi, Joe Clarke, Aamir Yamin, Sharjeel Khan, Mohammad Ilyas, Mohammad Imran, Jordan Thompson, Sahibzada Farhan, Rohail Nazir, Tom Abell, Umaid Asif, Faisal Akram, Qasim Akram, Mohammad Taha Khan, Romario Shepherd, Talha Ahsan.

Karachi Kings PSL 2022 schedule

Jan 27: Karachi Kings vs Multan Sultans

Jan 29: Karachi Kings vs Quetta Gladiators

Jan 30: Karachi Kings vs Lahore Qalandars

Feb 4: Karachi Kings vs Peshawar Zalmi

Feb 6: Karachi Kings vs Islamabad United

Feb 13: Peshawar Zalmi vs Karachi Kings