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Saqlain hopeful of Pakistan hosting entire PSL in future

Dubai - Fans are waiting with bated breath to watch their heroes

Pakistanis are waiting with bated breath with the hope of a full-fledged Pakistan Super League (PSL) taking place in their home country.
Sparse crowds at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium is a concern for the Pakistan Cricket Board.
Former Pakistan international Saqlain Mushtaq, a spin consultant with Peshawar Zalmi, believes it is one of the best leagues in the world and it is the best thing to have happened to Pakistan cricket in recent times.
While talking to Khaleej Times exclusively, the inventor of doosra said: "The PSL belongs to Pakistan and cricket-hungry fans are waiting for the moment when they will see their heroes and international stars performing in front of their eyes."
Defending champions Zalmi have yet to hit the form as they have only one victory from three matches in the PSL 2018. Their key bowler Hassan Ali is suffering from heel injury and is eager to make a comeback.
"We have got mixed results so far but I am hopeful Zalmi will bloom as the tournament progresses.
"I say this because we have got a number of match-winners who can change the course of the match. The mixture of youth and experience will take us through," the former star off-spinner added.
Javed Afridi, owner of Peshawar Zalmi, has done a great service to the game in Pakistan. He has unearthed a number of stars through the talent-hunt programme and Peshawar Zalmi Foundation has helped many less privileged in the country.
"The PCB managed to stage the 2017 PSL final in Lahore and Javed played a key role in turning it into a reality.
"He was confident in the middle of the tournament that his players will travel to Pakistan despite all inhibitions. Captain Darren Sammy was the first to raise his hand to go to Lahore and it all became possible courtesy of the Zalmi owner.
"In the presence of cricket enthusiasts like Javed, we hope international cricket will be back in Pakistan since security situation has been improved tremendously.
"Lahore will host two playoffs and the final will be played in Karachi this year. We hope to host the entire tournament very soon in Pakistan," Saqlain concluded on this positive note.
liaqat@khaleejtimes.com