Zimbabwean all-rounder Sikandar Raza expressed his disappointment with the Lahore Qalandars’ defeat against Karachi Kings during the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) on Sunday. Raza remains hopeful that his team will bounce back in the upcoming matches.
“To be a champion, you have to beat everybody. It’s not that we just need to beat Karachi or any one particular team. If we want to become a champion, we would need to win the majority of the matches,” Raza stated, expressing confidence in his team’s potential to emerge victorious.
Raza also discussed the areas that need improvement ahead of the Qalandars’ remaining matches. “I think 185 was below par because I don’t think the match got ahead of us. I think the lesson to learn is that if we can manage the middle [of the innings] well, then we have enough power to win the match at the end, if we can keep the run-rate close to the required rate.”
The defending champions Lahore are currently at the bottom of the table with two points after playing two matches. It is worth noting that Karachi Kings secured their maiden victory in PSL 8 after beating Lahore Qalandars by 67 runs.
Karachi Kings posted a competitive 186-run target on the scoreboard before bowling out Qalandars for 118 runs in 17.3 overs. Skipper Imad Wasim struck in his last over after Akif Javed took two wickets to put Kings in control against Qalandars.
Aamer Yamin and Mohammad Amir gave Kings two early breakthroughs, but Tahir Baig and Kamran Ghulam led the run-chase. Young bowler Akif, who was roped in as a replacement for an injured Mir Hamza, struck twice in his third over to send the two batters back to the pavilion and put his side on course for victory.
The closing ceremony and final of PSL 8 will take place on March 19 in Lahore, which will also host the playoffs. The winner will receive the Supernova Trophy and a cheque of Rs120m, while the runners-up will receive a cheque of Rs48m.
Lahore Qalandars will attempt to become the first side to win back-to-back titles, while Islamabad United will aim to become the most successful side by lifting the trophy thrice. Rawalpindi will stage 11 fixtures, Karachi and Lahore will host nine matches each, whereas Multan will have five home games.
Also, see:
Lahore Qalandars beat Multan Sultans in the Opening Clash of PSL 8
