Rumman Raees – the other hero behind United’s shock win against Gladiators

By
Faizan Lakhani
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DUBAI: Islamabad United toppled Quetta Gladiators in a last-ball thriller on Friday night – a win largely (and of course, rightly) credited to pacer Mohammad Sami who bowled his team to the shock victory in the ultimate over.

But the man who laid the foundation for the team’s 1-run victory is Rumman Raees.

Raees, who famously dismissed Lahore Qalandars skipper Brendon McCullum twice in this tournament, set United up for last night’s win by conceding just 2 runs in the penultimate over.

Not just that; the 25-year-old bowler also clinched the crucial wicket of Gladiators captain Sarfraz Ahmed, shaking up the rival batting order and making the win possible.

Raees credits his impressive death bowling skills to United mentor and director Wasim Akram.

"It's been a pleasure working with Wasim Akram. He has taught me how to handle pressure and how to stay cool and calm when under the pump,” the pacer said.

“This team's motto is Dimagh Se & we do play like that,” he added.