[PSL] Quetta Gladiators Fans Thread [Naseem ruled out for 1 week]

Nawaz backs Quetta to avenge Multan defeat



Spin battle: Conditions in the UAE mean that the side with the better spinner goes into the game with a significant advantage. PHOTOS COURTESY: PSL

DUBAI: Quetta Gladiators’ star all-rounder Muhammad Nawaz, who has continued his impressive form in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), is eyeing a scalp against leaders and newcomers Multan Sultans.

Multan outplayed Quetta the last time these two teams clashed against each other and Nawaz is looking to avenge that nine-wicket defeat.

“This format favours the batsmen and that means the bowlers have to work really hard if they want to trouble the batsmen,” said Nawaz, while talking to The Express Tribune. “If a bowler continues to bowl at a good line and length then it helps restrict the batsmen and that is the best you can hope for.”

Nawaz revealed the amount of work and effort that goes into preparing for a match. “We practice for a match keeping the opposition in mind,” he said. “I personally research about all the weak and strong areas of every batsman by watching their videos. I then try to target the weaker areas of the batsmen. Bowling at the right time to the right batsmen at the right line and length is what helps me claim wickets.”

Multan may have already shown why they are considered by many to be standout favourites to win the PSL while Quetta have struggled in the tournament so far but Nawaz believes they have what it takes to defeat the leaders, especially since they now face them in Dubai as compared to Sharjah.

“The pitch behaves differently in Dubai as compared to Sharjah,” he said. “I personally feel that bowling is easier in Dubai and I am confident that I can trouble the Multan batsmen more in Dubai than what I did in Sharjah. We will be doing our best to claim the two points against a difficult Multan side.”

The left-arm spinner believes that Quetta need their pacers to step up to the plate since they are the ones who have to bowl during the crucial death overs of a match.

“Fast-bowlers have several options that they can rely upon when bowling at the death,” he said. “They have both bouncers and yorkers to turn to. A spinner cannot bounce out a batsman or surprise him with the shorter pitched stuff so our element of surprise is significantly reduced. I still practice bowling during the death overs since that has helped me improve my skills further and I have learned a few tricks that have improved my confidence.”

https://tribune.com.pk/story/1653470/7-nawaz-backs-quetta-avenge-multan-defeat/

 

Quetta struggling without a specialist T20 pacer



Lacking pace: Quetta have struggled this season and their lack of express pace is to blame for it. PHOTO COURTESY: PSL

KARACHI: Two-time Pakistan Super League (PSL) finalists Quetta Gladiators are feeling the pinch as they sit outside of the playoff qualification places in fifth but have no one but themselves to blame as they made the inexplicable decision of going into the third edition without a specialist T20 fast-bowler in their ranks.

The only express quick that skipper Sarfraz Ahmed has at his disposal is Rahat Ali, who much prefers the longest format of the game.

Rahat has only played 44 T20 matches in the domestic circuit but had never before featured in an international T20I or any major T20 global league.

In previous seasons, Quetta could call upon the services of bowlers such as Tymal Mills and Thisara Perera — two players who specialise in T20 bowling and have a whole host of tricks up their sleeve that help them thrive in the shortest format. Perera had five wickets in six matches for Quetta last year, while Mills had seven in five.

But even the stats fail to truly encapsulate the importance of a fast-bowler in the side, with last year’s game between Lahore Qalandars and Quetta showing precisely what Sarfraz is missing this time around. Mills was the difference maker that day, claiming the crucial wicket of Sunil Narine to turn the game on its head and guide Quetta to an eight-run win.

Last year Quetta had won four out of their first five matches and were favourites to finish top of the group by this stage of the tournament. This time around, they have won just two of their five games and face the very real possibility of failing to qualify for the playoffs altogether.

In a low-scoring league such as the PSL, bowlers become all the more important and a look at the bowlers Quetta’s rivals boast shows precisely why they are the fifth-best team this time around.

Karachi Kings and Multan Sultans, the top two sides of the tournament, have arguably the best pace attack. Karachi boast the fearsome quartet of Muhammad Amir, Muhammad Irfan Jr, Tymal Mills and Usman Khan Shinwari in their ranks, while Multan have the Pakistani trio of Junaid Khan, Muhammad Irfan and Sohail Tanvir to call upon.

Defending champions Peshawar Zalmi have one of the world’s finest bowlers Hasan Ali alongside Wahab Riaz, the PSL’s top wicket-taker so far, as well as England pacer Chris Jordan. Newcomer Umaid Asif has also impressed in the tournament so far.

Islamabad United won the first edition thanks mainly to their fast-bowling trio of Irfan, Rumman Raees and Muhammad Sami. Irfan has since left for Multan but Andre Russell and Steven Finn provide a good enough support cast for Misbahul Haq.

Even bottom side Lahore Qalandars have the likes of last year’s best bowler Sohail Khan and Bangladesh sensation Mustafizur Rehman in their side.

Quetta, on the other hand, have Rahat Ali, Anwar Ali and Shane Watson — hardly a trio that sparks fear into the hearts of batsmen.

Sarfraz may have some of the best batsmen in the league but there is only so much Kevin Pietersen, Rilee Rossouw and others can do. Without the bowlers to back them up, Quetta fans can never rest easy.

Quetta and Sarfraz have a happy habit of defying the critics and punching above their weight —after all they were similarly written off in the opening two editions as well — but it would be nothing short of a miracle if they can match their previous achievements, let alone go one step further.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/1653518/7-quetta-struggling-without-specialist-t20-pacer/

 

This article captures it all why Gladiators are lagging this time.

 

Just saw a video clip of Azam Khan's batting, and I can tell you he looked impressive. He was so composed at the crease, was playing spin so well, touch of Inzamam in him, and boy, he is a powerful striker of the ball. He should play this game. Quetta mustn't waste him.

 

Shane Watson ‘still undecided’ on whether to visit Pakistan for PSL

DUBAI: Quetta Gladiators’ key all-rounder Shane Watson said, in an interview, that he is still undecided whether to visit Pakistan for the eliminators and final match of Pakistan Super League (PSL) third edition, adding that currently, it is more important for him to help his side qualify to the next stage.

“At this point in time, I am still undecided,” he said on a question whether he will travel to Pakistan if Quetta Gladiators qualify for the final stages of the PSL.

He stressed, “The most important objective is for all of us to help Quetta Gladiators qualify for the eliminators and then on to the final of the tournament.”

Watson added that he still has a few more games to go so there are some more time and cricket to be played before the Pakistan leg of the tournament. Acknowledging that the decision will have to be made in a couple of weeks, he explained that “(the) decision isn’t so much my own as it is my family’s which is the most important part of my life”.

The 36-year-old Australian cricketer hoped that the Gladiators will play the final match in Karachi.

When asked about Sarfraz Ahmed’s captaincy, Watson replied that “it’s been a great experience playing under his captaincy”, and that Sarfaraz remained excellent in leading the Gladiators. “He has great energy for the game and projects that enthusiasm on the team, regardless of whether he is coming into bat or when he is in the field,” he stated.

On the success of the league, Watson opined that he had no doubt that the PSL is already one of the best leagues in the world.

Despite the current best bowling figures of 6 for 24, Umar Gul could not help Multan Sultans clinch victory over Quetta Gladiators who defeated Sultans by two wickets.

https://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/20...decided-on-whether-to-visit-pakistan-for-psl/

 

'Mentors' trust gave me confidence to perform'

Quetta Gladiators' emerging player Hasan Khan said that he dedicated his stellar performance in the showdown against Multan Sultans to his team mentor, Sir Vivian Richards.

"It was Sir Richards' birthday today and I would like to dedicate my performance to him. The team has also dedicated the win to him," Khan said while talking to DawnNewsTv.

Talking about being hugged by Sir Richards when he hit the winning six, Khan said, "It was one of the best moments of my life, it is because of all the stars and mentors in the dugout and the confidence they have in me that I was able to play that well."

"My heartbeat was fast, but I also did have confidence on my own abilities and the fact that it was not a large total to beat helped me too," Khan said during a post-match press conference.

The Gladiators also surprised Sir Richards with a birthday cake during their post-match celebrations.

https://www.dawn.com/news/1393943/i...-on-yesterdays-gladiators-vs-sultans-showdown

 

Told myself it’s not a big run-chase, I can finish the game: Hassan Khan

DUBAI: Quetta Gladiators left-arm spinner Hassan Khan said that before he arrived on the crease to face Multan's bowling attack, he knew that he would finish the game.

“I just had one thing in mind that its not a big run chase and I could finish the game,” he said. “PSL is a big platform for the youngsters to showcase their talent. Thankful to Almighty for letting me achieve success for my team in the important match.”

Gladiators successfully chased down the 153-run target on the second-last ball of the innings as tail-ender Hassan Khan dispatched a slower ball bowled by Kieron Pollard over the mid-wicket boundary for six.

Responding to a question, Khan said that he would like to maintain consistency in his performance with full confidence – and the rest is on the Almighty.

The 19-year-old, who is the captain of Pakistan U-19 team, said that he has aimed to give his best in the tournament so that he could be spotted by the selectors for the national team.

https://www.geo.tv/psl/latest/185373-knew-that-i-would-finish-the-game-hasan-khan

 

Watson on the fence about coming to Pakistan, says will 'sit down' with family



DUBAI: Quetta Gladiators' Shane Watson on Thursday sounded unsure about travelling to Pakistan for the final stages of the Pakistan Super League's (PSL) third season, saying it was "not just my decision".

Watson was speaking to the media here after his team toppled Karachi Kings in what turned out to be quite a surprising match.

"The most important thing is us getting through the finals … that's a starting point," he said.

"As I said previously, I have to sit down with my family to be able to really work through what the right decision is for my family and I.

"It is just not my decision. It is my mum's and dad's and wife's as well. We will all sit down" to discuss the options.

Discussing the match, however, the sportsman said: "There is no doubt a few things went my way.

"While I was out there, I was looking forward to a good partnership with Kevin Pietersen. It was a lot of fun tonight; KP doesn't sit on the fence too much," he added.

Referring to the Gladiators' faceoff with the Multan Sultans earlier, the batsman said it was a feat "to be able to get over the line".

"When you're able to [defeat] such a great team, it definitely provides a lot of confidence. We played across the board with the batting and the bowling.

"Personally … it's great to have played a great inning," he added.

Nevertheless, he was all rainbows and praise about Pakistanis and their undying love for cricket.

"Most importantly, the Pakistani people, the cricket loving people are able to get the opportunity to watch cricket live.

Watson noted that being unable to watch one's heroes on live television would be disappointing. "Can't imagine how tough it would be, growing up, not being able to watch my idols play cricket."

"It's a great thing cricket is being played in Pakistan. absolutely love my time here.

"The best part of the Pakistani culture is that they're beautiful people and they love their cricket as much as I do. [Therefore, it is] great to go places where people share the same love of cricket."

https://www.geo.tv/latest/185522-sh...pak-says-will-sit-down-to-discuss-with-family

 

Frustrating this. KP has confirmed he is not going and very slim chances of Watson being there. Two big players missing. Will only end up being the same outcome as last year.

 

Momentum is with us however our big players missing from the next stage is going to go against us once again.

 

Might reach final again but won't win it without Watson and KP who won't travel to Pakistan.

 

did @Mohsin hack
@ASLI-PATHAN s account

 

If you start seeing anti-Pukhtoon bhugz filled posts from AP then i suppose youll be forgiven for assuming that ive hacked it indeed...

 

So Roy and Rashid Khan are joining them... but heard that Roy is injured and did not play in the Eng-NZ series

 

No.

 

indian.

 

Sarfraz Ahmed appeared satisfied at his team being able to find the right combination and getting on the winning track after initial difficulties.

"We were finding it hard to grasp what brand of cricket we will play. But thankfully, we have now been able to find motivation," Sarfraz said praising the form of his team's star players Kevin Pietersen and Shane Watson.

Responding to a question about both the top performers' indecisiveness about coming to Pakistan and the possibility of Quetta heading towards a possible disaster like the previous season's final, Sarfraz said he was hopeful both Pietersen and Watson "would make a decision for the betterment of the team".

Meanwhile, another international player of Quetta Gladiators, Rilee Rossouw, has also cast doubts on his arrival to Pakistan and has said he would need to consult his family before making the final decision. Watson has already made a similar comment, saying he would need to sit down with his family before making the final decision.

Sarfraz today said his team would look at other international players who were ready to come to Pakistan in case those in the current squad refused.

https://www.dawn.com/news/1394593/wahab-riaz-acknowledges-poor-display-of-cricket-by-peshawar-zalmi

 

After injury-induced hiatus, Rahat Ali is back and 'enjoying' PSL




DUBAI: Quetta Gladiators' Rahat Ali said Saturday night he was glad to be "100 percent fit" and back in the game after a year-long hiatus owing to an injury he had sustained in 2017.

Ecstatic to playing again and being in the limelight, Ali, 29, said: "Shukar Alhamdolillah (gratitude and praise be to God), I'm in great form and I'm bowling well.

"Prior to this, I had sustained an injury, recovery from which took me some time. But I'm 100 percent fit now."

Speaking about his treatment, the right-handed batsman said he "was unable to play at all during 2017" because he "couldn't recover for some reason".

Ali spent approximately six to seven months in the National Cricket Academy (NCA), where he was given medical attention.

"After that, I did play domestic but I lagged behind because I was playing matches after a year and minor problems continued to occur," he explained.

"Nevertheless, I'm playing now, with no issues, and I'm 100 percent fit."

Ali said he was thankful to the Quetta Gladiators management for offering him the chance to participate in the Pakistan Super League's (PSL) third season.

"I'm very glad to have been given this opportunity. I thank Quetta Gladiators for picking me just at the right time.

"We were undergoing fitness tests and I passed just two days ahead of the bidding for the Quetta Gladiators."

Further, he noted that the selectors are always eagle-eyed for emerging talent.

"I think everyone can perform. The selectors keep an eye out for the talent, for players.

"[Players] can make comebacks, new players can play.

"Considering the kind of matches being played, I think the standard is quite good and I'm enjoying."

https://www.geo.tv/psl/latest/18580...iators-rahat-ali-is-back-and-enjoying-cricket

 

Nawaz keen to become top bowler of PSL-3

ISLAMABAD - Muhammad Nawaz has revealed that becoming top bowler of Pakistan Super League (PSL) is his main target and he is also keen to win the best player of the tournament award.

In an interview with The Nation, Nawaz said: “The first PSL was good for me but the second was ordinary, but this year, I am on target and want to give credit to skipper Sarfraz Ahmed, coaches, Sir Vivi Richards and all the senior players for this. Rawalpindi Region head coach Sabih Azhar is also a name behind my series of successes while my club captain Raja Naeem was also very kind to me, so I am grateful to Almighty that I am delivering for Quetta and also keen to help my country register crucial wins.”

Nawaz said he held onto his position for national team, but Imad Wasim then took over. “I have injury concerns but I always work very hard and my basic aim is to perform for Pakistan team and help it achieve new heights. I want to become number one all-rounder in all three formats of the game and it is my utmost priority to deliver when it matters the most.”

He said besides Sarfraz Ahmed, Kevin Pieterson and Shane Watson are also very supportive and always come to him and guide well. “I always enjoyed while playing under Sarfraz’ captaincy, who always demand 100 percent, as he always leads from the front and never compromises on second best. When likes of KP and Watson are around, things are very simple and one learns a lot. Their presence is a source of great inspiration not only for me but also for all teammates and obviously, we are all playing as unit and gathering momentum.”

Nawaz said: “Now things are smooth and everybody in the team is hungry and want to contribute, that is what we were missing in the first few matches, but now we are back on track. The way team owner Nadeem Omar is involved is really amazing and it puts a new lease of life in all of us. Now we are fully focused on first grabbing a place in the semifinals and then the mega final.

“It is in Karachi, so we all want to win the title and go one step better. It was sheer disappointment in the first two seasons, as despite reaching the final and playing superb cricket, we fell short at last hurdle, but this year, I believe we will earn glory and win the coveted trophy,” Nawaz concluded.

https://nation.com.pk/12-Mar-2018/nawaz-keen-to-become-top-bowler-of-psl-3

 

Sarfraz wants to win Pakistan Super League title for Balochistan

Sarfraz Ahmed wants to win the Pakistan Super League title for terror-affected Balochistan. The Quetta Gladiators captain hopes to give the province a gift so that the people have something to celebrate amidst strife.

While talking to Khaleej Times during his visit to Sport 2000 at the Arabian Centre on Tuesday, Sarfraz said: "Quetta reached the final in previous two editions of the PSL but failed to cross the final hurdle. First we will try to qualify for the play-offs and then think of reaching the final. The team is confident of winning the title this time for the people of Balochistan.

"The security situation has improved tremendously in Balochistan and Sadiq Sanjrani was elected Chairman of Senate (upper house) on Monday. We want to give another good news to people of the region by winning the title on March 25.

"If we win, it will be a great news for the less developed area of Pakistan and the owners of Quetta Gladiators have left no stone unturned to make it happen."

Sarfraz hails from Karachi but has no soft corner for Karachi Kings and is ready to beat them if both the teams face each other in the final.

"I am from Karachi and I have played all my cricket in the city. Since I am representing Quetta, there is no question of divided loyalties. My priority will be to win for Quetta and I hope God will help us this time."

Twenty20 leagues around the world have provided a platform to the emerging players and the PSL is no exception. The earlier two editions have produced the likes of Shadab Khan, Fakhar Zaman and Mohammad Nawaz.

"It (T20 leagues) is the best thing to happen for the young cricketers around the world. The players like Hasan Khan and Shaheen Shah Afridi (the under 19 players) are sharing the dressing rooms with the legends like Kevin Pietersen, Brendon McCullum and Kumar Sangakkara. This experience will do a world of good for the emerging players.

"I can't give you the names of few youngsters until the tournament is over. I am sure Pakistan Cricket Board officials are keeping an eye on the performances of the young players. Their performances will help them to reach another level."

Last year, Quetta failed to convince their foreign players to travel to Pakistan for the PSL title clash in Lahore and. On the other hand Peshawar Zalmi owner Javed Afridi was able to persuade his players to visit Pakistan and play the final against Quetta at Gaddafi Stadium. It hurt Quetta's cause and they lost the final against Peshawar Zalmi.

"Unavailability of our top players in the last year final proved a big hurdle for the team. It was players' decision and the management was helpless. The same could happen this year as well. I have no idea how the team officials could convince players to go to Pakistan. We can face the similar situation if we reach the knock-out stage of the tournament."

https://www.khaleejtimes.com/sarfraz-wants-to-win-title-for-balochistan

 

Moin taking nothing for granted

Quetta’s head coach warned on Tuesday that such is the nature of the T20 format that no team, no matter how good its position, can afford to relax.

“I know that we are in a strong position but I want to make one thing clear. We will be taking nothing for granted because anything can happen in T20 cricket,” the former Pakistan Test captain told ‘The News in an interview.

Quetta, who ended on the losing end in the finals of the previous two PSL editions, have back-to-back matches against Lahore Qalandars and Islamabad on Wednesday and Thursday in Sharjah. Even victory in either of the two games should put Quetta in the March 18 playoff in Dubai, the winner of which directly qualify for the March 25 finale in Karachi.

But Moin is not thinking about the final, at least not yet.“At the moment our sights are set on Wednesday’s match (against Lahore). The momentum is with us and I’m confident that the team will give its best,” Moin said.

With one leg in the playoffs, Quetta must be worrying about one question that their fans are already asking: Will the team’s foreign players be willing to travel to Pakistan for the playoffs?Last year, Quetta whisked into the final with a series of impressive wins but were let down by their foreign stars who refused to play the final in Lahore. The Gladiators were literally slaughtered by Peshawar Zalmi in the final at the Gaddafi Stadium.

“That’s certainly an issue for us but I’m sure that things will be different this time if we qualify for the playoffs,” Moin said.“We have been talking to our foreign players and most of them are willing to play in Pakistan. I’m really looking forward to having our entire first eleven available for the playoffs,” he said.

https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/291942-moin-taking-nothing-for-granted

 

Quetta lose Hastings through injury

SHARJAH: Quetta Gladiators received a setback on Tuesday when Australian paceman John Hastings was ruled out of the remainder of the HBL Pakistan Super League through injury.

Hastings, who has represented his country in one Test, 29 One-day Internationals and nine Twenty20 Internationals, suffered a side strain during a training session, according to Quetta team manager Azam Khan.

“John is already on his way to Australia to get proper treatment. At this point in time the team management decided it would be too risky for him stay here because injury like this requires more time to heal up,” Azam told Dawn from the team’s hotel in Dubai.

The 32-year-old Hastings played just three matches in his maiden PSL season and bagged only two wickets for 77 runs with an economy rate of 7.70 per over.

Hard-hitting opening batsman Jason Roy, who has flown in from New Zealand after being part of the England side which won the ODI series 3-2, has joined the squad in Dubai on Monday afternoon and will be in contention for a place when current leaders Quetta take on Lahore Qalandars here at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Wednesday.

“The arrival of Jason obviously strengthens our batting line-up and is available for selection in Quetta’s next game against Lahore tomorrow [Wednesday].

Meanwhile, the discarded Pakistan seamer Umar Gul has recovered from the knee injury sustained during his career-best spell of 6-24 against Quetta six days ago when he took the field for Multan Sultans’ crucial fixture against Islamabad on Tuesday night.

Multan currently are in precarious situation after losing three games — versus defending champions Peshawar Zalmi, Quetta and Lahore — on the trot during third leg of the tournament at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium last week.

https://www.dawn.com/news/1395058/quetta-lose-hastings-through-injury

 

Quetta welcome Jason as Roy-alty

KARACHI: Two-time Pakistan Super League (PSL) finalists Quetta Gladiators welcome English batsman Jason Roy in their squad as they take on Lahore Qalandars in their second last match of the league stage at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

The 26th match of the tournament promises a lot of excitement as an already eliminated Lahore side has won two matches on the trot against PSL3’s two of the best outfits — Multan Sultans and Karachi Kings.

Meanwhile, Quetta are currently placed on the top of the table with 10 points from eight matches courtesy five wins, three losses and a better run rate of 0.587 as compared to Islamabad United (who have the same point but a lower run rate of 0.244).

Across all three editions, Quetta, in their five matches against Lahore, have defeated the Qalandars four times with the only loss coming in their first-ever encounter in the first season.

However, with their best pace signing of the season, Jofra Archer, leaving early, Quetta are now counting on the expertise of English batsman Roy, also known as the ‘Machine Gun’ for his prolific power hitting.

Vice-captain Asad Shafiq believes the right-handed batsman will be a valuable addition to the team, even if he joins them for the two remaining league matches.

“Our strength in batting is here and Roy will be helping us in the rest of the two matches before the tournament moves to Lahore,” Quetta vice-captain Shafiq told The Express Tribune. “Our top order is already strong but his presence will strengthen our bating further make it invincible.”

Roy, recently back from the Australia-New Zealand series, has become Shafiq’s pick as the player who can guide Quetta to victories against Lahore and Islamabad.

“All team member are happy to have him on board and now we feel stronger than before and hope to win the remaining two matches to end on the top of the league table,” he said.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/1659707/7-quetta-welcome-jason-roy-alty/

 

Can they find someone better than Ramiz Raja Jn

 

Does he even know what a bat is?

 

Had they not already qualified would we have seen some more hits from the lower order? Would we have see a few more risks taken? Got pretty close to the target but my fear is if the top order fail are the lower order ready to take on the responsibility in a run chase?

This team is going to take a big hit when the games move to Pakistan it seems. Eagerly awaiting any news on replacements

 

Moin blames lack of partnerships behind Gladiators’ loss

SHARJAH: Quetta Gladiators Coach Moin Khan said on Thursday that the team was chasing a ‘gettable total’ in their match against Lahore Qalandars but couldn’t pull off a win as the team wasn’t able to build big partnerships.

Speaking in a post-match press conference, he said: “We had four foreign batsmen, the plan was to chase the target which we unfortunately couldn’t.”

Gladiators lost by 17 runs against Lahore Qalandars on Thursday.

The coach refused to pin the blame of the loss on the pitch, by saying that huge totals were scored in both the innings and an entertaining cricket was seen. “What else could have been better. If we had wickets in hand, we could have completed the chase.”

The coach said that the team couldn’t bowl well and called it ‘off-track’.

“We bowled in the strength areas of our opponents. The momentum was there, unfortunately, we couldn’t get a good partnership that’s why we lost otherwise we would have won the game. Our strength was our batting which didn’t click.”


https://www.geo.tv/psl/latest/186429-moin-blames-lack-of-partnerships-behind-gladiators-loss

 

If Sarfraz doesn’t give Saad Ali, Saud and Azam a chance today then he should banned from PSL 3.

 

KP, Watson's absence would be a big loss, says Sarfraz

Quetta Gladiators captain Sarfraz Ahmed revealed that he doesn't know just yet which of his foreign quartet will travel to Pakistan for the business end of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) and added that the impending absence of Kevin Pietersen and Shane Watson would be a big loss to the team.

Quetta Gladiators finished runners-up twice in the competition, first to Islamabad United and then Peshawar Zalmi.

They were hit hard in the second edition when their array of foreign stars didn't make the trip to the final in Lahore.

A similar situation stares at them and the Quetta Gladiators face the prospect of missing two or more of their regular foreign imports.

England's T20 globe-trotter Kevin Pietersen, who had said that the PSL would be his swansong, has already confirmed that he will not rack up the air miles, while Australian Shane Watson is also in doubt.

"As of this moment, it is not confirmed yet which players are going and which players are not going. KP, I think is not going. Talks are ongoing with Shane Watson by the team management and the PCB. I have no idea about the other players. I do know that Chris Green and Ben Laughlin will travel," revealed Sarfraz.

The Quetta Gladiators have Pietersen, Watson, Rilee Rossouw and Jason Roy, who jetted into Dubai after England's sojourn in New Zealand.

They have Chris Green as cover for Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan and Ben Laughlin as cover for Jofra Archer.

Sarfraz said that the Quetta Gladiators were the worst hit when it came to foreign players as compared to the other franchises.

Peshawar Zalmi had most of their foreign players making the trip, last time out, including captain Darren Sammy.

"The biggest problem is for our team because it is mostly our foreign players who are hesitant on travelling to Pakistan. So, if Kevin Pietersen and Shane Watson don't come, we will face a big loss. But we will try to take the best players possible," he said.

Meanwhile, the Quetta Gladiators went down to table toppers Islamabad United at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Thursday night and Sarfraz said that they were probably 20 runs light after opting to bat.

"We have to do better with the bat, especially the top order. We lost too many wickets early on. If we had runs on the board, it wouldn't have been easy to chase on this pitch. We were 20 runs short. Had we got 170, there would have been a different scenario to the match," Sarfraz said.

The Quetta Gladiators made 147 for seven in their 20 overs with Sarfraz top scoring with 43. Islamabad United chased that down with six wickets in hand and 10 balls to spare.

https://m.khaleejtimes.com/kp-watsons-absence-would-be-a-big-loss-says-sarfraz

 

Quetta Gladiators' owner unhappy over foreign players refusal to visit Pakistan


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“Shane Watson had earlier committed he will travel to Pakistan, but [he] backed off at last minute,” says Omer Nadeem. —photo courtesy Omer Nadeem's Twitter

The owner of Pakistan Super League (PSL) Franchise Quetta Gladiators has expressed displeasure as most of his franchise’s foreign players have refused to travel to Pakistan to take part in the playoffs, DawnNewsTvreported.

The owner of two-time losing finalists Quetta Gladiators, Nadeem Omer, said: “It happens every time, we cannot convince foreign players to travel to Pakistan.”

He asked the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to include only those foreign players in future drafts who are willing to travel to Pakistan.

“Shane Watson had earlier committed that he will travel to Pakistan, but [he] backed off at last minute,” Omer said.

“If PCB fails to resolve this issue, the franchise owners will lose the charm,” he said.

The Quetta Gladiators owner said Raiwind blast proved to be a major setback, as foreign players got worried after it.

Meanwhile, the local players of Quetta Gladiators returned to Pakistan on Saturday. They will face Peshawar Zalmi in playoff match which will be played in Lahore.

https://www.dawn.com/news/1395903

 

Lagta hai Watson ne shuru main boongi maari thi...should have got him to sign something committing himself to coming to Pakistan. If he then decided not to, he would be liable to re-pay half his PSL fee.

 

Loving where my cricket takes me, says Green

Quetta Gladiators new signing Australian Twenty20 specialist shows his eagerness to join his team for Pakistan-leg of the Pakistan Super League’s third edition. The right-handed batsman has also represented Lahore Qalandars in previous edition. A useful off-break bowler as well Green represents Sydney Thunder in Australia’s Big Bash Twenty20 league. He tweeted to show his availability for his team. “Loving where my cricket takes me. Looking forward to my first visit to Pakistan with my @TeamQuetta family for our playoff match against @PeshawarZalmi on Tuesday night ?? Exciting spectacle to be apart of and cannot wait to get out there! #HBLPSL #ShaanePakistan #Zordaar11.”

https://nation.com.pk/19-Mar-2018/loving-where-my-cricket-takes-me-says-green

 

Quetta jolted as Laughlin, Watson pull out of Pakistan leg

DUBAI: Quetta Gladiators were jolted by further pull-outs on Sunday when the franchise officially announced their leading run-getter in the 2018 HBL Pakistan Super League, Shane Watson, and paceman Ben Laughlin will not be travelling to Pakistan for the playoffs.

Watson, the 36-year-old Australian all-rounder, and Laughlin joined former England captain Kevin Pietersen and the current England limited-overs opener Jason Roy who had earlier pulled out of the Pakistan leg.

Quetta will surely be miss these stars when it faces defending champions Peshawar Zalmi in Lahore in Tuesday’s first eliminator in Lahore.

Watson is the third-highest scorer in PSL III with 319 runs in the 10 league-round matches while left-armer Laughlin bagged three wickets in as many games.

During one of the media conferences last week, Watson indicated his reluctance over touring Pakistan when he said: “I have to sit down with my family to be able to really work through what the right decision is for them and me. It is just not my decision. It is my mum’s and dad’s and wife’s as well. We will all sit down to discuss the options.”

Surprisingly, Watson also had kind words to say for Pakistan during the same briefing: “The best part of Pakistani culture is that they are wonderful people and love their cricket as much as I do. It is great to visit places where people share the same love for the sport.”

The Australian all-rounder also had sympathised with the fans watching the PSL action on TV. “I just cannot imagine how tough it would be, growing up, not being able to watch their idols play cricket in front of them.”

Roy, the 27-year-old South African-born right-hander, was a late arrival for the third edition from England’s ongoing tour of New Zealand and played in Quetta’s last two league-round fixtures in Sharjah earlier this week and scored 53 runs.

Quetta, who faced a major exodus during last year’s final in Lahore when all their first-choice overseas players refused to play in the Punjab metropolis, will however have the services of South African left-hander Rilee Rossouw who has agreed to participate in Tuesday’s encounter at the Gaddafi Stadium after receiving a briefing from Reg Dickason, the independent security consultant whom the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had engaged to oversee security-related arrangements in Lahore and Karachi.

Australia’s Chris Green, who came into the squad as a replacement for Afghanistan spinning wizard Rashid Khan — who is currently on national duty in the ICC World cup qualifying event in Zimbabwe — has given his availability to the team management although the 24-year-old, who was born in Durban, has yet to play a game in the PSL.

Quetta have signed up Sri Lankan all-rounder Thisara Perera, who was granted special permission to play for Sarfraz Ahmed-led side after being originally picked by Multan Sultans but did not play a single match for the newest franchise, as well as West Indies opener Johnson Charles and Tom-Kohler Cadmore, the 23-year-old right-handed batsman who plays for English county team Yorkshire.

Reacting to the development, Quetta franchise owner Nadeem Omar expressed his disappointment at Watson’s abrupt exit. “Shane Watson had earlier committed that he will travel to Pakistan [for the later stages of the PSL] but he backed out at the last minute,” he lamented

https://www.dawn.com/news/1396155/quetta-jolted-as-laughlin-watson-pull-out-of-pakistan-leg

 

Quetta hope local players will deliver in Lahore




DUBAI: Quetta Gladiators coach Moin Khan on Sunday urged his local players to step forward and give their best in a bid to take the side into the HBL PSL final in the absence of key foreign stars like Shane Watson and Kevin Pietersen.

Several of Quetta’s overseas players have refused to travel to Pakistan for the final stages of the PSL, leaving last year’s finalists in a precarious situation ahead of their playoff against defending champions Peshawar Zalmi on Tuesday (tomorrow) in Lahore.

However, Moin hoped that despite the absence of the foreign stars, Quetta have the firepower to go all the way in PSL 3.

“I think it’s a good opportunity for us to make a comeback. Although our main players are not here I’m confident that we can go on to win the tournament. My team is looking good,” the former Pakistan captain said in a video message after a grueling training session of his team at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday.

Moin said that he also had a team meeting in which the local players were told that they have a big responsibility in the absence of the team’s key foreign players.

“The local players certainly have a bigger responsibility now. We have told them not to depend on the foreign players. Many of the newcomers and many others haven’t played yet in the tournament. Every individual should think that I’m the one who can win it for Quetta Gladiators,” he said.

https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/294050-quetta-hope-local-players-will-deliver-in-lahore

 

Rilee playing then?

Good stuff

Only other loss is Watson then...KP was finished anyway so not much of a loss.

 

They can’t win with just Rossou and Perera. They also need good bowler to replace Laughlin

 

Sarfraz confirms replacements for Watson, Pietersen ahead of Gladiators' eliminator

Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Quetta Gladiators captain Sarfraz Ahmed on Monday announced the replacements for Shane Watson and Kevin Pietersen, as both star players have refused to visit Pakistan to participate in the remaining fixtures of the ongoing PSL season.

Former Sri Lankan captain Thisara Perera and Bangladesh's all-rounder Mahmudullah — who made a match-winning 43 off 18 balls in a thrilling game against Sri Lanka last week — will be part of the Gladiators squad for tomorrow's eliminator against Peshawar Zalmi to be played in Lahore, the skipper announced.

Both Perera and Mahmudullah became available after the hyped and controversial Nidahas trophy ended yesterday with a last ball six by India's Dinesh Karthik.

Quetta, who faced a major exodus during last year’s final in Lahore when all their first-choice overseas players refused to play in Lahore, will however have the services of South African left-hander Rilee Rossouw who has agreed to participate in Tuesday’s encounter at the Gaddafi Stadium after receiving a briefing from Reg Dickason, the independent security consultant whom the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had engaged to oversee security-related arrangements in Lahore and Karachi.

On Sunday, Gladiators had officially announced that their leading run-getter in the PSL, Shane Watson, and paceman Ben Laughlin will not be travelling to Pakistan for the play-offs.

Watson, the 36-year-old Australian all-rounder, and Laughlin joined former England captain Kevin Pietersen and the current England limited-overs opener Jason Roy who had earlier pulled out of the Pakistan leg.

Quetta will surely miss these stars when it faces defending champions Peshawar Zalmi in Lahore in Tuesday’s first eliminator in Lahore.

Thisara Perera has been granted special permission to play for Sarfraz Ahmed-led side as he was originally picked by Multan Sultans but did not play a single match for the newest franchise. Moreover, Quetta have signed up West Indies opener Johnson Charles and Tom-Kohler Cadmore, the 23-year-old right-handed batsman who plays for English county team Yorkshire.

Earlier on Saturday, the owner of Quetta Gladiators had expressed displeasure after his franchise’s foreign players refused to travel to Pakistan to take part in the playoffs, DawnNewsTv reported.

The owner of two-time losing finalists Quetta Gladiators, Nadeem Omer, said: “It happens every time, we cannot convince foreign players to travel to Pakistan.”

He asked PCB to include only those foreign players in future drafts who are willing to travel to Pakistan.

While announcing the replacements, Sarfraz also backed this statement and asked PCB to take this suggestion into consideration.

He, however, hoped that this time the local players will win in big for Gladiators.

On the other hand, Peshawar will be at full-strength for the Quetta clash after their franchise owner Javed Afridi confirmed that all their foreign players barring Dwayne Smith would travel to Pakistan.

“As was the case last year, this year too our overseas players will travel to Pakistan for the playoffs,” Afridi posted on his Twitter account.

Smith, the West Indies batsman, has pulled out due to family reasons.

https://www.dawn.com/news/1396268/s...tson-pietersen-ahead-of-gladiators-eliminator

 

Great to be in Lahore again, says Viv Richards


Viv Richards at a hotel in Lahore


LAHORE: West Indian batting legend and mentor for the Quetta Gladiators, Sir Vivian Richards has arrived in the walled city for his team’s match against the Peshawar Zalmi.

“It’s great to be here again in Lahore. I hope that this time we are a little more successful than last time out,” Richards said.

The former batsman stressed that Lahore was a great place and this time he brought his family along with him.

The Quetta Gladiators will face the Peshawar Zalmi in the first eliminator match with the winning team facing Karachi Kings for a place in the final.

Foreign players of Quetta Gladiators who have travelled to Pakistan include Rille Rossouw, Chirs Green, Mehmoodullahm T Perera and Tom Kohler-Cadmore.

For the Peshawar Zalmi, foreign players include Darren Sammy, Liam Dawson, Evin Lewis, Andre Fletcher, Tamim Iqbal and Chris Jordan

https://www.geo.tv/psl/latest/187199-great-to-be-in-lahore-again-says-viv-richards

 

Mr Nadeem Omar needs to put some more money in his franchise and get some decent local fast bowlers in his side. QG were really weak on local fast bowlers this season.