KARACHI: Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Karachi Kings, in their send-off event on Sunday, expressed the hope of entering the finals of the third edition of the tournament. Karachi Kings captain Imad Wasim said team would try to put smiles on the fans of the franchise by winning the title. “We are going to the UAE keeping in mind that we have to win the title by performing in the third edition of the PSL. In the last two seasons we were not able to make Karachi fans happy, but this time we will come to Karachi for the final and win it,” said Imad. “You all just pray for us and leave the rest to us, we will not disappoint you this time.” Right-handed opener Babar Azam said Kings looked in shape courtesy a good mix of players. “We will try to give our best and make it into the final,” he said. Meanwhile, the first international PSL player to come to Karachi, England all-rounder Ravi Bopara said: “The way I was welcomed by everyone in Karachi was incredible. I just want you all to keep supporting your team. We have a wonderful team and we will win. “We did have a good team in previous editions but unfortunately we were not able to make it into the final, but this time we will,” he said, adding that visiting Karachi before the final was a great pleasure for him.
“I am here before the final and the security is up to the mark. When I go back, everyone will be asking me about the visit and I know they will be pleased to hear all the good experiences I had in these two days.” Karachi Kings director cricket operations Rashid Latif believes sixth team’s addition will make the league more competitive. “With the inclusion of sixth team, the level of competition has increased and also the chance for our youngsters to play top level cricket with international stars.” Chief Minister of Sindh Murad Ali Shah was also present at the ceremony and wished the team well. “This time, instead of going to Dubai to watch PSL, I’ll be waiting here in Karachi to welcome the team for the final and I hope that Karachi is one of the teams in the final.”
Published in Daily Times, February 19th 2018.