In a landmark event symbolizing the global ambitions of Pakistani cricket, the HBL PSL held its first-ever official Road Show at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London. This move is intended to aggressively market the franchise league to international investors and fans.
The historic gathering included PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, veteran cricketers, and current national team stars, all celebrating the league’s success.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s Vision:
Chairman Naqvi announced that the PCB and PSL management are unified in their goal to enhance Pakistani cricket, with the ultimate target being to transform the PSL into the world’s number one league. He praised the national cricketers’ potential and outlined major plans:
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The PSL provides emerging talent with vital opportunities to refine their skills.
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The upcoming bidding process for the league will be completely open and transparent.
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New Projects: The PCB is set to build a new cricket stadium in Islamabad. To boost fan engagement, every stadium will host musical concerts alongside matches. Promotion will extend to New York, USA, via another roadshow, and the PCB will soon launch its own OTT platform.
Voices from the Stars:
The players at the panel discussion underscored the league’s importance to their careers and national cricket:
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Babar Azam: He hailed senior players as equivalent to “academies” due to the invaluable guidance they provide, calling the PSL’s consistent success a major achievement for Pakistani cricket.
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Haris Rauf: The fast bowler described the PSL as an integral part of his life and a critical turning point in his career trajectory.
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Sahibzada Farhan: He emphasized the role of domestic cricket and the opportunities the PSL offers to learn from experienced international and senior players like Babar Azam.
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Wasim Akram: The former captain highlighted that the league provides exceptional exposure to local talent, stating that its success is a result of collective hard work.
In closing, Pakistan’s High Commissioner, Dr. Muhammad Faisal, termed the Lord’s road show a historic success, affirming that sports are now effectively playing a diplomatic role.
