Sports Archives - Page 9 of 35

Moeen Ali explains why he chose PSL over IPL

April 18, 2026 by Newsdesk

English all-rounder Moeen Ali has explained his decision to prioritise the Pakistan Super League over the Indian Premier League, saying limited opportunities in the previous season influenced his choice.

In an interview, the England all-rounder said that during his last stint with Kolkata Knight Riders, he only played half the matches and received very few chances to bat. “At this stage, I want to play more cricket and maintain my form,” he said.

Moeen Ali added that at the age of 38, he is still motivated to perform and extend his career by staying active on the field. He said regular game time is crucial for his rhythm and consistency.

Now representing Karachi Kings, Moeen said joining Karachi was a major turning point in his decision-making. He also noted that the shorter format and schedule of the PSL suits both him and his family better.

The English all-rounder further revealed that he had always wanted to play in the PSL, but scheduling conflicts between major leagues often force foreign players to choose one tournament. This time, he said, he deliberately opted for the PSL to ensure more playing opportunities and better continuity.

Shahid Afridi offers support to ailing ex-Afghan cricketer Shapoor Zadran

April 17, 2026 by Newsdesk

KARACHI: Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has expressed deep concern over the health of former Afghan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran and offered his full support.

According to reports, the 38-year-old ex-cricketer is in critical condition and has been admitted to the intensive care unit due to a serious medical complication.

Pakistan and I stand with you.
Always here if you need any help. 🤍 https://t.co/d5yfIBe4zF
— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) April 17, 2026

His family has also shared updates on social media, requesting fans to pray for his recovery.

Reacting to the news, Afridi said he spoke with Zadran’s brother and was saddened to hear about his condition. In a message shared on social media platform X, he wrote, “You have always been a fighter on the field, and I am confident you will fight this battle with the same spirit. Praying for your speedy recovery.”

Afridi further assured support, stating that both he and Pakistan stand with Zadran during this difficult time, adding that he is available for any kind of assistance if needed.

It is worth mentioning that Zadran represented Afghanistan in 44 One Day Internationals, taking 43 wickets, and claimed 37 wickets in 36 T20 Internationals. He also had a brief but impactful presence in franchise cricket before announcing his retirement in 2025.

Quetta Gladiators beat Lahore Qalandars by 6 wickets in PSL 11 clash

April 17, 2026 by Newsdesk

KARACHI: Quetta Gladiators secured a comfortable six-wicket victory over Lahore Qalandars in a match of Pakistan Super League Season 11.

Batting first after winning the toss, Lahore Qalandars were bowled out for 134 runs in 19.5 overs. Haseebullah Khan top-scored with 33 runs, while Usama Mir added 22. Fakhar Zaman made 20, Abdullah Shafique scored 17, and Sikandar Raza contributed 15 runs.

For Quetta Gladiators, Jahandad Khan and Usman Tariq picked up three wickets each.

In reply, Quetta Gladiators chased down the 135-run target comfortably in the 17th over, losing four wickets. Rilee Rossouw remained unbeaten on 60, while Hasan Nawaz scored 49.

On the points table, Quetta Gladiators now sit in fourth place with 6 points from 7 matches, while Lahore Qalandars are seventh with 4 points from 6 games.

Salman Agha advocates gradual path for PSL performers

April 16, 2026 by Newsdesk

KARACHI: Salman Ali Agha, captain of Karachi Kings and Pakistan’s T20 side, has said that performances in the Pakistan Super League alone should not be the sole basis for immediate selection into international cricket.

Speaking after Karachi Kings’ eight-wicket loss to Islamabad United in PSL 11, Agha admitted that his team failed to deliver across all departments.

“We did not play good cricket today. We will try to perform better in upcoming matches and make a comeback,” he said during the post-match press conference.

Reflecting on his own form, Agha said he has been getting starts but has struggled to convert them into big scores. “Once a player gets set, he should go on to make a big total.

When the top order performs, it benefits the team. Today’s pitch was around a 170-run surface, but we couldn’t reach that mark,” he added.

Karachi Kings had posted 150 for 6 in their 20 overs, but Islamabad United chased down the 151-run target comfortably in 16 overs, losing just two wickets.

The skipper also expressed concern over his recent performances, noting that both his World Cup outing and current PSL season have not gone as expected. He hinted that he may consider taking a break from T20 cricket closer to the 2027 ODI World Cup if required.

Agha further emphasized the need for player development, stating that PSL performances are important for recognition but players should continue to refine their skills in domestic cricket before being fast-tracked to the international level.

He concluded by acknowledging the role of fans in enhancing the appeal of any tournament, adding that improved performances are essential to regain stronger public support.

Islamabad United beat Karachi Kings by 8 wickets

April 16, 2026 by Newsdesk

KARACHI: In the Pakistan Super League Season 11, Islamabad United secured a convincing eight-wicket victory over Karachi Kings to move up to second place on the points table.

After winning the toss, Islamabad United opted to field first, inviting Karachi Kings to bat. Karachi posted a total of 150 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs, with Rassie van der Dussen scoring 51, Jason Roy contributing 39, and Azam Khan adding 34 runs.

In reply, Islamabad United chased down the 151-run target comfortably in just 16 overs, losing only two wickets. Sameer Minhas led the charge with 58 runs, while Devon Conway remained unbeaten on 53. Captain Shadab Khan also played a steady unbeaten innings of 31 runs.

With this win, Islamabad United moved to second place with nine points, strengthening their position in the tournament.

Meanwhile, Peshawar Zalmi continue to lead the table with 13 points, while Karachi Kings remain in fifth position with six points after the defeat.

Peshawar Zalmi cruise to 8-wicket victory over Quetta Gladiators in PSL 11

April 15, 2026 by Newsdesk

Karachi — Peshawar Zalmi registered a comfortable eight-wicket win against Quetta Gladiators in Match 11 of the Pakistan Super League, securing their sixth victory of the tournament.

After winning the toss, Zalmi opted to field first, inviting Quetta to bat. The Gladiators struggled to build momentum and were bowled out for 154 runs in 20 overs. Hassan Nawaz top-scored with 37, while Rilee Rossouw contributed 26. Khawaja Nafay added 20, and captain Saud Shakeel chipped in with 16 runs.

For Zalmi, Sufiyan Muqeem and Mohammad Basit were the standout bowlers, claiming three wickets each to restrict Quetta to a modest total.

In response, Zalmi chased down the 155-run target with ease, reaching it with nine balls to spare. Captain Babar Azam led from the front with an unbeaten 71. Mohammad Haris scored 35, while Kusal Mendis and Aaron Hardie added 21 and 18 runs respectively.

With this victory, Peshawar Zalmi remain unbeaten in the tournament, sitting at the top of the points table with 13 points from seven matches, including one no-result due to rain. Meanwhile, Quetta Gladiators languish in fifth place, managing just two wins so far in the competition.

PCB imposes two-year PSL ban on Blessing Muzarabani

April 14, 2026 by Newsdesk

KARACHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has imposed a two-year ban on Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani for withdrawing from the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

According to the PCB, Muzarabani violated his contractual agreement after signing with the PSL but later opted to participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

The board emphasized that professional cricket is built on trust and the sanctity of contracts. It added that franchise leagues require players and agents to maintain transparency, consistency, and professional conduct.

The PCB further stated that the ban is a necessary step to protect the integrity and professional standards of the PSL, underscoring the importance of honoring agreements and upholding the reputation of the tournament.

Tennis Legend Björn Borg to visit Pakistan next month

April 14, 2026 by Newsdesk

ISLAMABAD: Swedish tennis great Björn Borg is set to visit Pakistan next month on a week-long tour, marking a significant moment for the country’s tennis scene.

The former world No. 1 will arrive on May 4 to attend the ITF Futures Series being held in Islamabad.

Borg, one of the most iconic players of the 1970s, won six French Open titles and five Wimbledon championships during his illustrious career, along with a total of 66 titles.

His son, Leo Borg, is also expected to participate in the Islamabad tournament.

During his visit, Borg may feature in an exhibition match with Pakistan’s tennis star Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi, adding further excitement to the event.

Peshawar Zalmi beat Multan Sultans by 24 runs, move top of PSL 11 table

April 13, 2026 by Newsdesk

KARACHI: Peshawar Zalmi secured a comfortable 24-run victory over Multan Sultans in Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 11, registering their fifth win of the tournament.

After being put in to bat, Peshawar Zalmi posted an impressive 196 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs. Kusal Mendis led the charge with a brilliant 68, while Mohammad Haris contributed a quickfire 38. Babar Azam scored 18, Saim Ayub added 30, and Michael Bracewell chipped in with 14 runs.

For Multan Sultans, Mohammad Ismail and Peter Siddle took two wickets each.

Chasing 197, Multan Sultans were restricted to 172 for 8 in their 20 overs. Shan Masood top-scored with 35, while Josh Philippe made 32.

Zalmi’s bowling attack was led by Sufiyan Muqeem, who picked up three wickets, while Iftikhar Ahmed and Nahid Rana claimed two wickets each.

With this win, Peshawar Zalmi moved to the top of the points table with 11 points from six matches, including one no-result, while Multan Sultans remain second with 8 points.

Babar Azam becomes first player to reach 4,000 PSL runs

April 11, 2026 by Newsdesk

KARACHI: Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam has created history in the Pakistan Super League by becoming the first player to score 4,000 runs in the tournament.

The milestone was achieved during a PSL 11 match against Lahore Qalandars, where the Peshawar Zalmi captain reached the landmark, further cementing his status as one of the league’s most consistent performers.

Babar has represented Islamabad United, Karachi Kings, and Peshawar Zalmi during his PSL career. He has played 105 matches so far, registering 2 centuries and 37 half-centuries.

In addition to this achievement, Babar Azam has also equaled the record for most century partnerships in T20 cricket, reaching 46 such stands in his career.

He now shares the record with Virat Kohli and Chris Gayle. Notably, Babar achieved this milestone in just 339 innings, compared to Gayle’s 455 and Kohli’s 400 innings, highlighting his remarkable consistency and efficiency in the shortest format.