Islamabad United: 5 Key Reasons Behind Shamar Joseph Exit
Islamabad United have made a surprising squad change ahead of the PSL season, and here are 5 key reasons behind the Shamar Joseph exit and the arrival of Blessing Muzarabani. The franchise’s decision to reshape its pace attack has already sparked major discussion across Pakistan Super League circles.
Islamabad United confirmed that West Indies fast bowler Shamar Joseph will no longer be part of their squad, with the contract terminated by mutual consent. The move comes shortly after the PSL auction, where Islamabad United secured Joseph for his base price. However, strategic reassessment of their bowling resources prompted a swift change in direction before the tournament begins.
The first key reason behind the Islamabad United decision is squad balance
With multiple specialist quicks already signed, including Mohammad Hasnain, Salman Irshad, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Mir Hamza, and Richard Gleeson, the management prioritized variety and proven T20 consistency. ISB United appear keen to fine-tune combinations rather than overload similar skill sets.
The second reason involves the recruitment of Blessing Muzarabani.
The Zimbabwean seamer brings prior Pakistan Super League experience and was part of a title-winning campaign in 2021. Islamabad United view Muzarabani’s height, bounce, and control as valuable assets, particularly in conditions that reward disciplined pace bowling. His recent performances on the international stage further strengthened the case for his inclusion.
The third factor behind the Islamabad United move is form and impact
Muzarabani recently delivered a Player-of-the-Match display at the T20 World Cup 2026, helping Zimbabwe secure a significant victory. That performance underlined his ability to perform under pressure. In franchise cricket, recent momentum often shapes selection strategy, and Islamabad United seem intent on capitalizing on Muzarabani’s resurgence.
The fourth reason relates to tactical flexibility.
Islamabad United have historically relied on a diverse bowling attack to adapt to varying PSL venues. Muzarabani’s ability to extract bounce and hit hard lengths complements the existing pace options. By contrast, Shamar Joseph, though talented, may not have aligned as precisely with the specific tactical blueprint ISB United aim to execute this season.
The fifth and final reason centers on long-term planning.
Islamabad United are joint-record champions in the PSL and consistently approach squad building with a strategic mindset. Adjusting personnel before the season allows them to avoid mid-tournament disruption. By securing Blessing Muzarabani early, ISB United ensure stability heading into the competition’s crucial opening phase.
Reports suggest that neither Shamar Joseph nor Islamabad United intend to issue extensive public statements regarding the mutual termination. The PSL technical committee is expected to formally approve the change. While unexpected, such decisions are not uncommon in franchise cricket, where performance metrics, availability, and team composition frequently influence roster adjustments.
The broader context also highlights Islamabad United’s ambition.
With two new teams entering the Pakistan Super League and competitive balance intensifying, franchises are under pressure to maximize every squad slot. ISB United’s proactive reshuffle reflects their determination to remain title contenders in an evolving league landscape.
For Shamar Joseph, the exit from ISB United does not diminish his international prospects. Franchise dynamics can shift quickly, and opportunities in other leagues may follow. Meanwhile, Blessing Muzarabani joins Islamabad United as the only other Zimbabwean in the PSL alongside Sikandar Raza, adding international diversity to the competition.
As the PSL season approaches, Islamabad United’s pace attack will draw close scrutiny. The inclusion of Muzarabani signals confidence in their revised bowling strategy. Whether this calculated change strengthens their championship push will become clearer once the tournament begins, but Islamabad United have once again demonstrated their willingness to act decisively in pursuit of success.
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