In a significant blow to Lahore Qalandars’ campaign in the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine, star leg-spinner Rashid Khan is set to miss the tournament. The Afghan cricketer, who has been a crucial asset for various leagues, is currently recovering from lower back surgery, putting a dent in Lahore Qalandars’ aspirations for another successful season.
Rashid Khan’s Absence Across Leagues
Rashid Khan’s absence in PSL 9 follows his non-participation in other prestigious leagues, such as the South Africa T20 League (SA20) and the Big Bash League (BBL). Despite the setback, Rashid is actively involved with the Afghan national side, showcasing his dedication to the team.
The Challenge of Rehab
Jonathan Trott, the head coach of Afghanistan, emphasized the cautious approach the team is taking with Rashid’s injury. Trott highlighted the need to ensure Rashid’s complete recovery before returning to the field, considering the nature of his recent surgery.
“It is a case of us making sure that we are really careful with his back,” Trott stated. “He is such an influential player, and we have to make sure he is 100% ready and not rush him back from that type of surgery.”
Rashid’s Commitment to the Afghan National Side
Despite not being fully fit, Rashid Khan is traveling with the team, demonstrating his passion and dedication to the Afghan national side. Trott acknowledged Rashid’s commitment, stating, “When he is ready, he will be the first one to get on the field. He has got a few more appointments and check-ups to make sure everything is okay. So there is no real time frame.”
Lahore Qalandars Squad Overview
The absence of Rashid Khan is a significant setback for Lahore Qalandars, considering his stellar performance in previous seasons. The team’s squad for PSL 9 includes notable players like Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and David Wiese. However, the void left by Rashid’s absence will undoubtedly pose challenges for the team’s overall strategy.
| Category | Player |
|---|---|
| Platinum | Shaheen Shah Afridi |
| Brand Ambassador | Haris Rauf |
| Diamond | David Wiese |
| Gold | Sikandar Raza, Abdullah Shafique, Zaman Khan |
| Silver | Mirza Tahir Baig, Rashid Khan |
| Other Players | Fakhar Zaman, Sahibzada Farhan, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Ahsan Bhatti, Dan Lawrence, Jahandad Khan, Syed Faridoun Mahmood, Shai Hope, Kamran Ghulam, Rassie van der Dussen |
PSL 9 Overview
The ninth edition of PSL promises to be an exciting cricket spectacle, commencing at PCB’s Lahore headquarters. The inaugural match will feature Islamabad United, champions in 2016 and 2018, against Lahore Qalandars, the current champions and two-time winners. The tournament will unfold in four cities: Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi, with the National Bank Stadium in Karachi hosting the final on March 18. PSL 9 comprises a total of 34 Twenty20 matches, featuring six competitive teams.
In conclusion, Lahore Qalandars will face a daunting challenge in PSL 9 Lahore Qalandars Face a Major Setback as Rashid Khan is Ruled Out, requiring strategic adjustments to maintain their competitive edge. The tournament promises cricket enthusiasts an exhilarating showcase of talent and fierce competition across various cities in Pakistan.