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PSL a worthy and exciting addition to T20 scene

by Derek Pringle Monday 21 March 2016

ICA hosted the London launch of Quetta Gladiators before the tournament began

©Cricket World

In a 12-month period that has already seen two global cricket tournaments perhaps the most exciting event was the launch of the Pakistan Super League.

Pakistan cricket has suffered since terrorists struck in Lahore seven years ago, when they attacked Sri Lanka’s team bus. That ambush and subsequent security fears, have seen most countries refuse to tour the country - decisions that have forced the national team into exile to fulfil their international obligations.

The PSL, despite taking place in the United Arab Emirates, has helped to provide an antidote to the despondency and in doing so has captivated a nation.

In a thrilling tournament, won by Islamabad United after they defeated Quetta Gladiators in the final, PSL has proved a worthy and exciting addition to the world’s T20 competitions.

The International Cricketers Association (ICA), founded by Moghees Ahmed, is proud to be associated with Quetta Gladiators, a franchise owned by Omar Associates.

Coached by Moin Khan, Quetta Gladiators includes top Pakistan talent like Mohammad Nawaz, Anwar Ali, Zulfiqur Babar and Ahmed Shehzad, as well as overseas stars like Kevin Pietersen and Kumar Sangakkara.

ICA hosted the London launch of Quetta Gladiators, an event that included a live video link with owner Nadeem Omar.

“I am honoured to be part of the Quetta Gladiators and to know that we are all going forward together,” said Mr Omar.

He added: “The inaugural Pakistan Super League will be a shop window to the world showing just how entertaining the game of cricket is and how, with the right support, investment and time we can truly make a difference to the lives and futures of our communities.”

The launch, attended by former England players Devon Malcolm, John Lever, Derek Pringle and Paul Nixon, as well as former Pakistan player Ata-ur-Rehman, was held at the iconic Hoover building in west London.

Commenting on the association between ICA and the Quetta Gladiators, Mo Ahmed said: “I am glad Quetta Gladiators are being introduced in UK where ICA is a key role player for its sponsorships, marketing, merchandising and fan fellowship.

"Our main goal is to promote cricket and cricketers. PSL is a great initiative to revive Pakistan cricket where the great names of the cricket world will showcase their talents. Of course it will help emerging Pakistani cricketers too and we all appreciate the efforts, hard work and professionalism shown by the Pakistan Cricket Board and PSL management in producing such a fine tournament.

"ICA has been established for three years and great players like Misbah-ul-Haq, Junaid Khan, Saeed Ajmal, Wahab Riaz and coaches like Lance Klusener, Paul Nixon, Aamir Sohail are associated with us.

"By joining with the Quetta Gladiators we hope to bring other players into the limelight.”