Just few days remain for the fourth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and we can’t wait for it.
As fans gear up for another thrilling season, we profile the Peshawar Zalmi franchise who emerged as PSL champions in the 2017 edition.
Squad
Darren Sammy (c), Kamran Akmal, Wahab Riaz, Hasan Ali, Sameen Gul, Khalid Usman, Umaid Asif, Liam Dawson, Misbah-ul-Haq, Kieron Pollard, Dawid Malan, Umar Amin, Sohaib Maqsood, Wayne Madsen, Nabi Gul, Jamal Anwar, Chris Jordan, Ibtisam Sheikh, Samiullah, Waqar Salamkheil.
Skipper – Darren Sammy
Having led the team in the past two editions including the title-winning campaign in 2017, it is once again West Indies all-rounder Darren Sammy who takes charge. Sammy is a fan-favourite to boot too with his personal mission to bring international cricket back to Pakistan.
Past performances
After Islamabad United, there is no team that has been as successful as Peshawar in the PSL. The franchise narrowly missed out on making the final in the inaugural edition and followed up their 2017 title with a runners-up finish last season.
Coach – Mohammad Akram
The former Pakistan pacer and now British citizen will once be in the dugout for Peshawar this season. Akram has played nine Tests and 23 ODIs for the country and was formerly the bowling coach of the Pakistan team.
Key players – Sammy, Wahab Riaz, Kieron Pollard, Hasan Ali
Pollard is a proven T20 match-winner on his day.
Strengths
In Wahab Riaz, Peshawar have the highest wicket-taker in PSL history. With Pakistan’s Hasan Ali also in fray, they have an excellent pace attack which has plenty of experience. The all-rounders in Pollard and Chris Jordan could provide some excellent balance too to the side.
Weakness
Their batting at the top can be a cause of worry for Peshawar. Misbah-ul-Haq brings plenty of experience but there is a shortage of explosive batsmen up the order for the franchise and that could cost them dear.
Prediction – Final
Having been one of the most consistent franchise over the past three years, it will be no surprise if Peshawar make their third final in a row. They have the players who have done it for them before with the side retaining the core of the team from the past two editions.
