Luke Ronchi has been showing signs of his batting potential Islamabad United with two consecutive half-centuries before Friday’s match against Peshawar Zalmi.

The 36-year-old smashed 77 and 71 against Lahore Qalandars and Peshawar Zalmi respectively and was aiming for another big score against the reigning champions.

Here, we analyse his performance in the 26-run victory at Dubai International Stadium.

STATISTICS

RUNS: 27

BALLS: 17

FOURS: 6

SIXES: 0

STRIKE-RATE: 158.82

30-SECOND REPORT

His stay at the crease lasted less than five overs but by that time, fans had already witnessed some hard-hitting boundaries from the former New Zealand batsman. Karachi Kings and Lahore Qalandars were both on the receiving end when they faced Islamabad United last week.

It looked like Peshawar Zalmi’s bowlers were going to be taken apart in similar fashion especially when Ronchi smashed two fours off an over from Hasan Ali. Wahab Riaz had it even worse as three straight balls went to the ropes but the Pakistani had the final say, dismissing him with the very next ball in the fourth over.

GOT RIGHT:

Opening the innings, did his part with the bat by going on the attack. It wasn’t a knock that got people talking but with his wrist-work and accuracy, he got enough bat on the ball to beat the fielders for the boundaries.

VERDICT: 6/10

A useful knock from the Kiwi and Islamabad United will be hoping there will be more big runs in him as the tournament enters the latter stages.