Shadab Expresses Support for Sarfaraz Ahmed’s Gladiators in PSL Final

LAHORE: Islamabad United’s skipper, Shadab Khan, conveyed on Friday his preference for Quetta Gladiators to emerge victorious in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10, citing his strong bond with the franchise’s team director, Sarfaraz Ahmed.

Following Islamabad United’s elimination from the competition after losses to both Quetta Gladiators and Lahore Qalandars in the playoffs, Shadab was questioned about his allegiance for the final showdown. The final is keenly awaited and will be held at Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday.

During the press conference held after their defeat against Qalandars, the all-rounder said he admires both Sameen Rana and Sarfaraz Ahmed, the team directors of Qalandars and Gladiators respectively. However, he admitted leaning towards Sarfaraz and desiring a victory for his team.

Shadab said, “I have great affection for Sameen, but my fondness for Sarfaraz Ahmed is slightly greater. Therefore, I am hoping for his team’s success.”

Notably, Shadab Khan started his white-ball cricket journey under the captaincy of Sarfaraz Ahmed in 2017. He also participated in the Champions Trophy victory under Sarfaraz’s leadership later that year.

In the current PSL 10, the Gladiators and Qalandars have met twice. Lahore Qalandars won the only completed match convincingly by 79 runs, while the other match concluded without a result. Lahore Qalandars hold a dominant position in their head-to-head record against the Gladiators, securing 10 wins out of 20 matches, while the Gladiators, who won the 2019 title, have won nine.