Islamabad's United journey to success

Dubai - Islamabad United launch a coffee-table book in Dubai

The inaugural Pakistan Super League champions Islamabad United on Wednesday launched a coffee-table book in Dubai that chronicles their 'journey into the unknown'.
The book, titled United We Won - The Journey To The Shooting Star, covers the story of the team from its formation in 2015 to its success in February 2016. It includes over 500 exclusive photos from the PSL and essays from Dean Jones and the owners about their experiences in the landmark tournament in Pakistan's cricket history.
The PSL chairman Najam Sethi, team mentor Wasim Akram and players - Mohammad Irfan, Sharjeel Khan, Saeed Ajmal, Khalid Latif and Mohammad Sami attended the book launch.
Islamabad captain Misbah-ul-Haq is in Dubai but failed to turn up for the event. Islamabad team owner Ali Naqvi made light of his absence saying that Pakistan's batting performance in the second innings against West Indies has forced Misbah to opt for some extra practice.
Addressing the ceremony, Naqvi said: "It was a journey into the unknown and we followed the basic rules of the business. We hired the best ones in the form of Wasim, Misbah and Dean Jones and let them execute their plans.
"We lost two early matches and were written off, but the team did not panic. The conducive atmosphere in the dressing room helped the team gel and we eventually lifted the inaugural PSL trophy. We tried to document this journey in a form of a book."
One of the stars of the 2016 event Sharjeel said: "The PSL has brought a sea change in my career. It has provided me a chance to stage a comeback to the national side.
"On the very first day at the nets, coach Dino told me 'I have never seen such a fierce hitter in Pakistan cricket' and that boosted my confidence. The presence of legends like Wasim and Tauseef Ahmed made a huge impact."
Khalid Latif was another success story in the tournament. While telling his rags-to-riches story Khalid said, "I am thankful to the PSL for reviving my career. I have been consistent performer at the domestic circle for quite some time but did not get call even for A side.
"One day I was walking in the park nearby my home and I got a call from Tauseef that I may be picked up for Islamabad United. After the call my walk transformed into running and I kept on jogging to celebrate the news."
"My performance in the PSL has helped me to break into Twenty20 team and now I hope to play one-dayers for my country," he added.
liaqat@khaleejtimes.com