Qalandars Aiming for Top-Two Finish, Says Raza

Lahore Qalandars’ prominent all-rounder, Sikandar Raza, has downplayed the excitement surrounding their anticipated Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 encounter against Karachi Kings, scheduled for Sunday at the Gaddafi Stadium.

In a recent interview, Raza highlighted that the approaching game is simply another match for the team as they pursue a top-two position to secure two opportunities to advance to the final.

Raza stated, “Each match holds significance for us as we aspire to conclude the points table in the first or second position, granting us dual chances to qualify for the final.”
“For the fans, this contest represents a clash between two major rivals, but for the team, it is just another match.”
“Karachi Kings are demonstrating strong performance, necessitating our best efforts to defeat them.”

The Pakistan-born all-rounder, representing Zimbabwe internationally, also encouraged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to leverage the league as a platform for nurturing young talent. He stressed that promising players should undergo comprehensive development before being introduced to the national team.

“Identify talent from PSL and cultivate it instead of immediately inducting it into the Pakistan team,” Raza advised.

The 39-year-old then shared insights on the young players who have impressed him across different facets of the game, mentioning teammate Mohammad Naeem, Multan Sultans’ Ubaid Shah, Peshawar Zalmi’s Maaz Sadaqat, and Ali Raza.

“Among the bowlers, Ubaid Shah and Ali Raza have caught my attention. Mohammad Naeem and Sadaqat are displaying promise in batting,” Raza noted.

“Observing Maaz Sadaqat’s innings, it is evident that he has significantly progressed in his cricket journey and exhibits considerable maturity.”