Mohammad Rizwan opens up after Multan Sultans’ elimination from PSL 10

LAHORE: Multan Sultans captain Mohammad Rizwan has highlighted the team’s shortcomings after they were eliminated from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10.

Chasing a daunting 205-run target, Multan Sultans crumbled under the pressure and were bowled out for a mere 117 in 16.1 overs in the 20th match of PSL 10 here at Gaddafi Stadium.

The Sultans’ seventh loss in the season also ended their hopes of qualifying for the Playoffs.

While speaking during the post-match press conference, Rizwan reflected on the side’s struggles throughout the tournament, their misreading of conditions.

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“We picked our squad based on the conditions,” he explained. “But unfortunately, the conditions didn’t go in our favour.”

Mohammad Rizwan revealed that when they arrived at Gaddafi Stadium, they found more grass on the pitch than expected, which disrupted their plans.

“We’re not the only ones — other teams have also struggled here,” he added.

Despite the setbacks, Rizwan made it clear he wasn’t offering excuses.

“I don’t want to make any excuse for the defeat. We played badly and we’re out of the tournament today,” he said.

Despite the setback, Mohammad Rizwan remains optimistic that the two remaining matches could help the team regain some pride.

“We still have two games to correct our mistakes,” Rizwan remarked.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

Rizwan also stressed his belief in earning victories through performance alone.

“I like to win on the strength of our own game. Depending on others doesn’t feel right,” he said.

Reflecting on Multan Sultans’ journey in PSL 10, he reminded reporters that the same core team had performed consistently well over the last four seasons.

“Everyone knows what we’ve gone through this season,” he said, hinting at internal challenges. Our fielding hasn’t been good throughout the tournament,” he admitted.

READ: Nabi, Vince star as Karachi Kings knock Multan Sultans out of PSL 10

PSL 10: Here’s why Mohammad Amir not playing against Lahore Qalandars

LAHORE: Quetta Gladiators fast bowler Mohammad Amir is not playing in the match against Lahore Qalandars, which is underway here at the Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday.

Mohammad Amir, who is in good form with the ball, is out of the match due to fever. Emerging fast bowler Mohammad Zeeshan has replaced him in the Quetta Gladiators team.

Mohammad Amir has taken seven wickets in six matches so far for Quetta Gladiators this season.

When this story was filed, Lahore Qalandar were 78/1 in 7.3 overs.

HEAD TO HEAD

Lahore Qalandars and Quetta Gladiators have faced each other 19 times since the PSL began. Lahore has a slight edge with 10 wins, while Quetta managed to secure 9 victories.

RECORD: Matches 19, Lahore Qalandars 10, Quetta Gladiators 9

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The highly anticipated Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10 will run from Friday, 11 April, to Sunday, 18 May.

This thrilling six-team showdown will feature a total of 34 electrifying matches, captivating cricket fans across the nation.

The iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore will be a key venue, hosting 13 matches, including the Eliminators and the grand final, which promises to be a spectacular event.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

According to the PSL 10 schedule, the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will heighten the excitement with 11 action-packed matches, including the crucial Qualifier 1 on May 13.

Meanwhile, the historic National Bank Stadium in Karachi and the vibrant Multan Cricket Stadium will each host five dynamic matches.

PLAYING XIs

Lahore Qalandars: Fakhar Zaman, Muhammad Naeem, Abdullah Shafique, Daryl Mitchell, Sam Billings (wk), Sikandar Raza, Asif Ali, Tom Curran, Shaheen Afridi (c), Haris Rauf, Asif Afridi

Quetta Gladiators: Saud Shakeel (c), Abrar Ahmed, Hassan Nawaz, Kusal Mendis (wk), Mark Chapman, Rilee Rossouw, Muhammad Zeeshan, Muhammad Wasim Jnr, Faheem Ashraf, Khurram Shahzad, Finn Allen

READ: PSL 10: Quetta Gladiators win toss against Lahore Qalandars

PSL 10: Quetta Gladiators win toss against Lahore Qalandars

LAHORE: Quetta Gladiators have won the toss and opted to bowl first against Lahore Qalandars in the 21st match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 here at Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday.

PLAYING XIs:

Lahore Qalandars: Fakhar Zaman, Muhammad Naeem, Abdullah Shafique, Daryl Mitchell, Sam Billings (wk), Sikandar Raza, Asif Ali, Tom Curran, Shaheen Afridi (c), Haris Rauf, Asif Afridi

Quetta Gladiators: Saud Shakeel (c), Abrar Ahmed, Hassan Nawaz, Kusal Mendis (wk), Mark Chapman, Rilee Rossouw, Muhammad Zeeshan, Muhammad Wasim Jnr, Faheem Ashraf, Khurram Shahzad, Finn Allen

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

HEAD TO HEAD

Lahore Qalandars and Quetta Gladiators have faced each other 19 times since the PSL began. Lahore has a slight edge with 10 wins, while Quetta managed to secure 9 victories.

RECORD: Matches 19, Lahore Qalandars 10, Quetta Gladiators 9

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The highly anticipated Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10 will run from Friday, 11 April, to Sunday, 18 May.

This thrilling six-team showdown will feature a total of 34 electrifying matches, captivating cricket fans across the nation.

The iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore will be a key venue, hosting 13 matches, including the Eliminators and the grand final, which promises to be a spectacular event.

According to the PSL 10 schedule, the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will heighten the excitement with 11 action-packed matches, including the crucial Qualifier 1 on May 13.

Meanwhile, the historic National Bank Stadium in Karachi and the vibrant Multan Cricket Stadium will each host five dynamic matches.

READ: Nabi, Vince star as Karachi Kings knock Multan Sultans out of PSL 10

PSL 10: Shadab Khan laments poor fielding in loss to Lahore Qalandars

LAHORE: Islamabad United captain Shadab Khan blamed poor fielding for their crushing defeat against Lahore Qalandars in the 19th match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 here at Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday.

Chasing a daunting 210-run target, Islamabad United crumbled under pressure and were bowled out for 121 in 16.5 overs, courtesy of a dominant bowling display from Lahore Qalandars.

Andries Gous remained the top scorer for United, scoring 41 runs off 27 balls, which included two fours and three sixes.

While speaking during the post-match presentation, Shadab Khan highlighted the shortcomings in the match, rueing poor fielding.

“I think our fielding lapses really hurt us today, especially when set batters were given chances, it made a big difference. We definitely fell short in the field, ” he said.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

The 26-year-old expressed his frustration with the frequency of soft dismissals, stressing the crucial role of mindset while chasing big totals.

“As professionals, we have to be ready for any situation. When you’re chasing a big total, the mindset has to match the challenge. Unfortunately, we gave away too many soft dismissals and didn’t bat up to our potential,” said Shadab.

He emphasized the pitch, deeming it favorable for fast bowlers, and mentioned that the pitch had become easier once the ball became softer.

“The pitch had something in it for the pacers. Early on, the hard length was effective, but once the ball got softer, batting became easier. It wasn’t spinning much, so the fast bowlers had a clear advantage if they hit the right areas,” he observed.

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Shadab Khan said that their focus is now shifted to the next match, adding that setbacks are common in tournaments like this.

“In tournaments like these, you’re bound to face a few setbacks. With back-to-back games coming up, our focus now shifts to the next match,” Shadab Khan concluded.

READ: PSL 10: All-round Raza stars as Qalandars end United’s winning streak

Kane Williamson praises depth of talent in PSL

Veteran New Zealand batter Kane Williamson has expressed his admiration for the Pakistan Super League (PSL), stating that he is impressed by the talent and depth in the league. 

The seasoned right-hander, who joined Karachi Kings after being picked in the supplementary category, spoke about his experience in PSL during an exclusive interview with ARY News.

Kane Williamson expressed his joy at being part of the PSL for the first time after hearing so many positive things.

“It’s great to be here and experience the PSL after seeing it from afar and heard a lot of really good things,” he said.

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Williamson lauded the talent pool in the PSL while stressing the need for Karachi Kings’ to carry on their winning momentum.

“You see the depth of quality here. So it’s great to be a part of it. We have a strong team that’s looking to keep improving, so hopefully we can do so in the remaining matches, ” he said.

The 34-year-old commented on Karachi Kings’ narrow loss against Quetta Gladiators, admitting that there are certain areas for improvement that they had worked on.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

“The team largely is playing really well, and to be honest for the probably 75 per cent last game, we were right on top, and you know, there are areas we want to improve on from that game and those conversations have been had, so hopefully we can go out and put together strong performances,” said Williamson

The veteran batter also shed light on his role with the Karachi Kings, stating that his focus is on adding value wherever possible.

“My role is just like adding value wherever I can, and like I say, it’s very nice to be here, ” he concluded.

For the unversed, Karachi Kings will return to the field on May 1, facing Multan Sultans at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.

The Kings will then take on Lahore Qalandars on May 4 and Peshawar Zalmi on May 8, before concluding their group stage campaign against defending champions Islamabad United on May 10.

Under the leadership of David Warner, the Kings currently sit fourth on the points table, with three wins from six matches in PSL 10.

READ: David Boon retires as ICC Match Referee

PSL 10: All-round Raza stars as Qalandars end United’s winning streak

LAHORE: Sikandar Raza’s all-round brilliance powered Lahore Qalandars to a dominant 88-run victory over table-toppers Islamabad United in the 19th match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 here at Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday.

Chasing a daunting 210-run target, Islamabad United crumbled under pressure and were bowled out for just 121 in 16.5 overs.

The defeat ended Islamabad United’s 10-match winning streak in the PSL and marked their first loss of the season.

The defending champions started poorly in the chase losing in-form batter Sahibzada Farhan (9) in the second over.

After an early wicket, Salman Agha and Andries Gous steadied the innings with a brisk 69-run stand, taking United to 80 in 9.3 overs. However, Qalandars struck back with quick wickets, leaving the chasing team three down for 87.

Salman was the first one to go, bowled by Sikandar Raza after a gutsy 36 off 25 deliveries, laced with three sixes and two fours. Azam Khan, who had a brief stay, was trapped lbw by Haris Rauf.

Once the partnership was broken, Islamabad was unable to recover and the whole team was bundled. Gous remained the top scorer with 41 runs off 27 balls, which included two fours and three sixes.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

Haris Rauf was the standout bowler for Lahore Qalandars, taking four wickets for 31 runs in 3.1 overs, while Sikandar Raza also impressed with three wickets.

Earlier, cameos from Sam Billings and Sikandar Raza propelled Lahore Qalandars to a massive total against Islamabad United.

Put in to bat first, Lahore Qalandars posted 209 for the loss of six wickets in their allocated 20 overs.

The home side had a quiet start as they could only manage 13 runs in their first three overs; however, emerging batter Mohammad Naeem smashed three consecutive fours off Ben Dwarshuis over which broke the shackles.

Qalandars ended their powerplay at 56-1, losing Naeem in the process. He was run out after scoring 25 off 22 balls laced with four fours and a six.

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Despite the wicket, Lahore Qalandars continued the momentum with a 47-run partnership between Abdullah Shafique and Fakhar Zaman, who was stumped off Imad Wasim’s bowling after a brisk 44 of 30 balls, featuring five fours and two sixes.

The wicket brought United back into the game as Lahore Qalandars could only manage to score 18 in the next three overs, losing Shafique in the process as well, after scoring 22 off 17 balls.

Meanwhile, Daryl Mitchell and Sam Billings came to rescue the Qalandars’ ship, forging a 145-run stand, bringing the score to 145 in 16.1 overs. The partnership was broken with Mitchell’s wicket, who went after scoring 28 off 18 with the help of two sixes and two fours.

However, Sikandar Raza and Sam Billings’ sublime knocks took them to a huge total. Billings’ blistering 38* off 17 deliveries featured four sixes and one four, while Raza struck three sixes and three fours in his 39 off 17.

For Islamabad United, Imad Wasim was the standout bowler, taking 2 wickets for 26 runs in his four overs, while Jason Holder also claimed two wickets but conceded 54 runs in the same number of overs.

PLAYING XIs

Lahore Qalandars: Fakhar Zaman, Muhammad Naeem, Abdullah Shafique, Daryl Mitchell, Sam Billings (wk), Sikandar Raza, Asif Ali, Tom Curran, Shaheen Afridi (c), Haris Rauf, Asif Afridi

Islamabad United: Andries Gous, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha, Imad Wasim, Haider Ali, Jason Holder, Shadab Khan (c), Azam Khan (wk), Ben Dwarshuis, Naseem Shah, Hunain Shah

READ: David Boon retires as ICC Match Referee

‘He shows no favoritism’: Haris Rauf praises Shaheen Afridi’s captaincy in PSL

Lahore Qalandars’ fast bowler Haris Rauf hailed Shaheen Afridi for his captaincy, deeming it a crucial factor behind the team’s success in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

During an interview with a social media platform, Haris lauded Shaheen Afridi’s leadership, mentioning his fairness as a standout trait of his captaincy.

“He does not show favoritism. On the field, he thinks and acts like a true captain,” Rauf explained.

Rauf credited Shaheen Afridi for Lahore Qalandars’ title-winning campaigns, highlighting his exceptional leadership.

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“Afridi’s captaincy has been outstanding — there is no doubt about that. He led us to two titles, and his role has been crucial in our success,” Rauf said.

The 31-year-old also shed light on Shaheen Afridi’s nature on the field as a captain.

“He may look aggressive during matches, but off the field, he is very composed and always there for the team,” he said.

Haris Rauf stated that when players have faith in their captain, it motivates them to give their best effort.

“When you believe in your captain, you want to give your best. I try to stick to his plans to help the team win,” he concluded.

The Rawalpindi-born fast bowler reflected on his PSL 10 performance, stating that he is not satisfied with his performance in the ongoing tournament.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

“To be honest, I am not yet satisfied with my performance in PSL, nor have I been able to meet the team’s expectations or my personal goals. However, I am constantly trying to figure out how to improve and live up to the team’s expectations,” the pacer remarked.

While looking ahead to the crucial matches for Qalandars, Haris Rauf said, “I’m working on improving my bowling speed because the upcoming matches are going to be very important.”

“I am working on improving my bowling speed because the upcoming matches are going to be very important,” he concluded.

READ: Former all-rounder eyes Pakistan head coach role

PSL 10: Islamabad United win toss against Lahore Qalandars

LAHORE: Islamabad United have won the toss and opted to bowl first against Lahore Qalandars in the 19th match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 here at Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday.

PLAYING XIs

Lahore Qalandars: Fakhar Zaman, Muhammad Naeem, Abdullah Shafique, Daryl Mitchell, Sam Billings (wk), Sikandar Raza, Asif Ali, Tom Curran, Shaheen Afridi (c), Haris Rauf, Asif Afridi

Islamabad United: Andries Gous, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Ali Agha, Imad Wasim, Haider Ali, Jason Holder, Shadab Khan (c), Azam Khan (wk), Ben Dwarshuis, Naseem Shah, Hunain Shah

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

HEAD TO HEAD

Islamabad United and Lahore Qalandars have squared off in 20 matches since the inaugural season of PSL. The United leads the head-to-head record with 11 victories.

RECORD: Matches 20, Islamabad United 11, Lahore Qalandars 9

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The highly anticipated Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10 will run from Friday, 11 April, to Sunday, 18 May.

This thrilling six-team showdown will feature a total of 34 electrifying matches, captivating cricket fans across the nation.

The iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore will be a key venue, hosting 13 matches, including the Eliminators and the grand final, which promises to be a spectacular event.

According to the PSL 10 schedule, the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will heighten the excitement with 11 action-packed matches, including the crucial Qualifier 1 on May 13.

Meanwhile, the historic National Bank Stadium in Karachi and the vibrant Multan Cricket Stadium will each host five dynamic matches.

READ: Former all-rounder eyes Pakistan head coach role

Saud Shakeel credits bowlers for Quetta Gladiators’ dominant win over Multan Sultans

LAHORE: Quetta Gladiators captain Saud Shakeel hailed bowlers for their dominant 10-wicket win over Multan Sultans in the 18th match of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 here at Gaddafi Stadium on Tuesday.

Quetta Gladiators successfully chased down the modest target of 90 runs without losing any wickets in just 6.5 overs, after their bowlers put up a dominant display, folding the opposition for a mere 89-run total.

Khurram Shahzad led the charge with a fiery spell, which dismantled the Sultan’s top order. The Player of the Match, Khurram, bagged four for 23 in his four overs before a resounding batting display saw Quetta Gladiators over the line in just 6.5 overs.

Finn Allen led the charge with two sixes and a four in the third over, setting the tone early in the chase. By the end of the powerplay, Gladiators had reached 74 runs without losing a wicket, showing sheer dominance with the bat.

Saud Shakeel and Finn Allen shared an unbeaten stand of 90 runs, laced with fours and sixes.

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Allen scored a blistering 45* off 21 deliveries, laced with five sixes and two fours, while Saud’s brisk 42* off 20 balls featured four sixes and three fours.

The victory marked Quetta Gladiators’ third consecutive win, moving them to second on the PSL 10 points table.

During the post-match presentation, Saud praised the bowlers for the victory, expressing his joy over the emphatic win.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

“It was a dream match for us, and I’m really glad we were able to chase down the total so quickly. There was definitely some support from the pitch, and full credit goes to our bowlers for setting up this victory, ” he said.

Saud Shakeel mentioned the break during the matches, stating that it had clearly helped them regain their momentum in the tournament.

“The rest break we had clearly helped — we came back refreshed and focused. As a team, we’re doing great, and today was a complete all-round performance across all three departments,” Saud said.

READ: Mohammad Rizwan hopeful of playoff qualification despite loss to Quetta Gladiators

Mohammad Rizwan hopeful of playoff qualification despite loss to Quetta Gladiators

LAHORE: Multan Sultans captain Mohammad Rizwan remains optimistic about his team’s chances of making the playoffs despite suffering a heavy defeat to Quetta Gladiators, stressing that playing ‘good cricket’ in the remaining matches will be key to their qualification hopes.

Multan Sultans had a poor outing with the bat as they were bundled out for a meagre 89-run total in the 18th match of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10, held at Gaddafi Stadium on Tuesday, thanks to a dominant bowling display from Quetta Gladiators led by Khurram Shahzad.

The right-arm pacer demolished Multan Sultans’ top-order with a fiery spell, taking four for 23 in his four overs.

In reply, Quetta Gladiators successfully chased down the modest target of 90 runs without losing any wickets in just 6.5 overs.

Quetta Gladiators openers provided a flying start, with Finn Allen smashing 17 runs in the third over with the help of two sixes and a four. By the end of the powerplay, Gladiators had reached 74 runs without losing a wicket.

Multan Sultans’ bowlers were kept at bay as Saud Shakeel and Finn Allen shared an unbeaten stand of 90 runs, showcasing pure dominance.

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Allen scored a blistering 45* off 21 deliveries, laced with five sixes and two fours, while Saud’s brisk 42* off 20 balls featured four sixes and three fours.

While speaking during the post-match presentation, Mohammad Rizwan highlighted the shortcomings, mentioning the pitch nature while rueing poor shot selection.

“I don’t think the pitch was that bad — it was challenging, but definitely a 150-160 kind of surface. Unfortunately, we were guilty of some poor shot selection. Credit to their bowlers for sticking to the right lengths and executing well,” he said.

Catch all the PSL 10 updates here!

Despite six losses in seven games, Mohammad Rizwan remained optimistic that Multan Sultans would qualify for the playoffs while admitting that he does not like to rely on other results.

“I still believe that if we play good cricket, we can give ourselves the best chance. We’re not out of it yet, but personally, I don’t like having to rely on other teams to help us qualify,” he said.

The 10-wicket drubbing by Quetta Gladiators has put Multan Sultans on the brink of elimination, with their chances now hanging on the results of other teams, even if they win their remaining games.

READ: PSL 10: Quetta Gladiators rout Multan Sultans in one-sided clash