LAHORE: Pakistan’s legendary former pacer Wasim Akram is excited for his stint as head coach of the Galle Gladiators franchise in the first season of Lanka Premier League (LPL), due to begin from November 21. The Galle Gladiators franchise is owned by Nadeem Umar who also owns the Quetta Gladiators franchise in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The Sri Lankan franchise has the likes of Mohammad Amir, Colin Ingram and Lasith Malinga in their squad. While speaking to Khaleej Times, Akram said that his team will be a strong contender in the upcoming tournament.
“We have some really good players in the Galle team, I don’t want to name names, but it is a good mix of youth and experience and I am sure we will give everyone a run for their money,” Akram said. “It is still early days to comment on whether we will make it to the final or not but one thing I can assure you, Galle Gladiators will be very tough to beat. I am really excited at our prospects,” he added. International cricket came to a halt in Sri Lanka on March 13 after the visiting England team pulled out on the second day of a practice match, ahead of their two-Test series due to Covid-19 pandemic. “Sri Lanka has been devoid of any sporting events, so what better way than to embrace the new normal with the most loved sports in the country and I am extremely glad that I will be part of this new beginning in Sri Lankan cricket,” Akram concluded.