Daily Times

KARACHI: As February starts, the hype for the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) continues to increase, with several Quetta Gladiators players sending messages to their fans regarding the upcoming tournament. There is some bad news to contend with as well though, with World T20 hero Carlos Brathwaite informing the fans that he will be unable to feature in this year’s tournament due to international commitments. “Unfortunately I will not be able to play in this year’s PSL as I have been picked to represent the West Indies in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers,” said the West Indies T20I captain. “I was really looking forward to it. However, country calls and I am looking forward to representing my country with distinction.”

The 29-year-old all-rounder did extend his support to his PSL team though. “I will be supporting from afar the Quetta Gladiators this season,” he said. “Good luck to friends, fans, members, players and staff alike. Good wishes for this PSL tournament and I will be following. Other Quetta players, on the other hand, expressed their excitement at being part of the mega tournament.

Australian pacer Ben Laughlin took to the camera to express his excitement at playing in the tournament. “Awesome news that I got picked up in the PSL by the Gladiators. Can’t wait to represent team purple,” said the 35-year-old, who made his ODI debut for Australia against Pakistan back in 2009. “Looks like an awesome competition and I am really excited, see you guys.” Fellow Australian Chris Green was similarly delighted. “Hi everyone, I am really excited to have been picked up the Quetta Gladiators in this year’s PSL,” said the former Lahore Qalandars man. “I had a great time there last year and I am looking forward to meeting my new teammates and putting on some good performances for all the Gladiators fans.”

Published in Daily Times, February 2^nd 2018.