Karachi Kings’ pacer and vice-captain Hasan Ali has made headlines in the ongoing HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10 — both with the ball and with his words.
In a standout performance against Lahore Qalandars at National Bank Stadium, Hasan Ali claimed 4 wickets for 28 runs, equalling Wahab Riaz’s record of 113 wickets to become the joint-highest wicket-taker in PSL history. Notably, Hasan achieved this feat in just 83 innings, four fewer than Wahab’s 87.
Top 5 PSL Wicket-Takers:
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Hasan Ali: 113 wickets (83 innings)
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Wahab Riaz: 113 wickets (87 innings)
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Shaheen Afridi: 107 wickets (74 innings)
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Shadab Khan: 96 wickets (85 innings)
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Faheem Ashraf: 79 wickets (72 innings)
While Hasan dominated with the ball, he also took time to speak out in support of former Pakistan captain Babar Azam, who’s been under pressure due to a rough start in PSL 10. Speaking at a press conference, Hasan said:
“Babar is our best player, and he will bounce back. We made Babar the king, and now we’re bringing him down — that’s not fair. Criticism for improvement is fine, but when it targets families, it crosses the line.”
Hasan emphasized the mental toll public criticism, especially on social media, can take on players and reiterated his own ambition to return to the national squad through strong PSL performances.
Umar Akmal Also Defends Babar
Umar Akmal added his voice in Babar’s defence during a podcast with Ahmed Ali Butt. When a guest suggested that Babar should be dropped from the national squad, Umar responded passionately:
“Babar captained Pakistan for five years — how can you speak like this? If he’s out of form, support him. You cannot talk like this.”
As Babar Azam continues to struggle with just one run in two matches for Peshawar Zalmi, he has received unwavering support from senior players and teammates alike — a reminder of his stature and potential to bounce back.
Conclusion:
Hasan Ali’s record-equaling milestone and open support for Babar Azam, echoed by Umar Akmal, reflect not only the competitive spirit of PSL but also the camaraderie and respect among Pakistan’s cricket fraternity. With the league entering a crucial phase, all eyes will be on whether Babar can turn his form around — and if Hasan Ali can go one better and become the league’s all-time leading wicket-taker.
