Gayle, Pollard set to feature in Pakistan Super League

Putting days of speculations to rest, Chris Gayle’s agency has confirmed that the Jamaican marauder will be one of the numerous worldwide cricket stars to feature in the inaugural season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) scheduled to be held in Doha from February 4 to 24 in 2016.

Gayle is one of the most sought-after players in the world’s T20 leagues and his confirmation has increased the credibility and excitement surrounding the PSL.

“Obviously top guns like Gayle are stars who attract fans”, Sethi said. “They are also sources of inspiration and emulation for our budding players”, Sethi added.

It is also reliably learnt that the event organisers are seeking at least 25 overseas players for the tournament. “Honestly speaking, it’s a great opportunity to play alongside some of the better global and domestic players and I am hoping that I can get a contract to participate in this tournament”, said the 28-year-old journeyman who has featured in T20 leagues around world including the Caribbean Premier League and Big Bash.

Apart from the West Indian duo, Sri Lankans Lasith Malinga, Angelo Mathews, Thishara Perrera, West Indies’ Sunile Narine, Kieron Pollard, Samuel Badree and many others have given their consent. There will be a total of 24 matches in the competition taking place at the West End global Cricket Stadium, Doha.

The PCB had originally wanted to conduct the PSL in the UAE, where Pakistan have been playing their global matches. The league has also taken on board former Pakistan captains Wasim Akram and Ramiz Raja as its ambassadors as the PCB aims to boost the profile of the T20 tournament.

Pakistan Cricket Board is now preparing for the logo launch ceremony on September 20 however, a bid for the franchises, broadcast rights, and other important details are yet to be worked out.