ISLAMABAD: Lahore Qalandars captain Shaheen Shah Afridi has said the ongoing training camp in Islamabad is providing an ideal platform for new players to gel and understand each other ahead of the upcoming season.
Reflecting on the franchise’s journey in recent years, Shaheen said that the last four to five editions of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) had been highly productive for the team. “The last four to five years of PSL have been very good for us,” he said. “Even when we did not win trophies, the most important achievement was bringing quality emerging players to the forefront.”
He added that the franchise’s extensive player development programme, based on nationwide trials, had played a key role in unearthing new talent. “Players were selected through trials held across the country. We supported them with proper training and development, and many of them have gone on to represent at national and regional levels,” he said.
Shaheen termed this as Lahore Qalandars’ biggest success over the years, highlighting the team’s contribution to grassroots cricket in Pakistan. “This is the biggest success of Lahore Qalandar- that local players are now making their mark at higher levels of the game,” he noted.
The left-arm pacer further revealed that the process of talent hunt continued this year as well, with trials conducted nationwide. “This year again, we held trials across the country and have identified some exciting talent,” he said, expressing optimism that a few new players would emerge as surprise packages for cricket fans.
Commenting on the squad composition and upcoming season, Shaheen said the inclusion of new and foreign players would add further strength to the side. “Many new players have joined the team, including foreign recruits. With PSL matches set to be played at new venues, the enthusiasm of fans will further enhance the value and appeal of the league,” he added.
