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Today's Paper | November 21, 2024

Updated 10 Feb, 2017 07:26am

McCullum to Morgan: Nine new players to look out for in PSL 2017

Pakistan Super League's (PSL) second season is about to get under way. Throughout the competition, we will be seeing world-class players giving their best to win the trophy for their teams.

While some players who graced the PSL last year will not be joining the league this season, a few new face are set to feature in PSL 2017.

Brendon McCullum

New Zealand’s Brendon McCullum brings the experience of 259 international and various domestic T20 matches.

With his classic offensive batting style, McCullum is known for bringing life back to his national side. He is a favourite amongst cricket fans all over the world and has, on a number of occasions, driven his teams to victory single-handedly.

His 158 runs for Kolkata Knight Riders against Royal Challengers Bangalore in the opening match of the first season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008 set the tone for his team's victory in the competition. At the back of that memorable performance, fans are expecting similar exploits by McCullum in the PSL.

With nine T20 centuries and 68 half centuries to his name, McCullum’s team, the Lahore Qalandars, have high hopes from the Kiwi. With his level-headed leadership, the Qalandars would be looking to turn their luck around this season after a disappointing outing last year.

Kieron Pollard

Kieron Pollard is best known for his excellent batting skills, but the West Indian is also a level-headed bowler and a priceless fielder.

He has played over 300 matches and was unable to participate in the PSL last year due to injury.

This year, however, the Karachi Kings have drafted him. Alongside Chris Gayle, Pollard will be leading the Kings’ bid to win the competition.

Eoin Morgan

The captain of England's T20 and ODI teams, Eoin Morgan is considered one of the best batsmen in the limited-over format.

He was unable to play in PSL 2016, but with over 200 matches to his name, Morgan is part of the Peshawar Zalmi this year.

Sunil Narine


The West Indian is a specialist of the off-spin, especially in the T20 format. Narine did not play in last year's competition due to illegal bowling action, which has now been cleared. With his high wicket and excellent economy rates, he will line up for the Lahore Qalandars and is expected to lead the team’s charge for the title.

Jason Roy

Jason Roy is rated as one of the best openers in the T20 format. The Englishman has been enlisted by the Lahore Qalandars to replace the injured Dwayne Bravo.

During the recent series in India, Roy showed his class by piling three half centuries against the home team.

Roy, along with McCullum, are set to form a fiery opening duo, capable of taking any bowling attack to the cleaners.

Marlon Samuels

Marlon Samuels’ stature can be gauged by the fact that he was man of the match in both the T20 world cup finals - in 2012 and 2016 - which the West Indies won.

He has been drafted by the Peshawar Zalmi and his team would be pretty satisfied if he produces the same level of performance that he regularly does for his national side.

Mahela Jayawardene

The Sri Lankan legend needs no introduction in the world of cricket. Be it T20, ODI or Test, Jayawardene has proven his quality in all formats and at levels.

His impeccable timing with the bat has left every bowler at loss at some point in his long and illustrious career. He will take the field for the Karachi Kings this year.

Tillakaratne Dilshan

Another Sri Lankan legend who has nothing to prove to anyone, Dilshan has been drafted by the Peshawar Zalmi. His team will surely benefit from his vast experience of the game.

Rilee Rossouw

The South African is one of the best players in the current cricketing scene. His offensive batting style has won him vast popularity the world over. He will be representing the Quetta Gladiators.

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