Shaheen, Fakhar, and Haris Lead Retentions Ahead of HBL PSL 10

Shaheen, Fakhar, and Haris Lead Retentions Ahead of HBL PSL 10

 Lahore Qalandars announce 8 retentions with HBL PSL 10 Draft set for January 11

 Shaheen Shah Afridi retained in the Platinum category

2 Platinum, 2 in Diamond, 3 in Gold, 1 Silver player retained

 According to PSL draft rule each team can retain up to 8 players

Lahore, 4 January 2025: Nawaz Gohar

Lahore Qalandars, the two-time champions of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL), have announced their retentions ahead of the much-anticipated HBL PSL 10 Draft.

With a balanced blend of experience, youth, and explosive talent at their core, the Qalandars are well-placed to finish the HBL PSL 10 Draft with a formidable squad.

Lahore Qalandars’ have retained Shaheen Shah Afridi and Fakhar Zaman in the platinum category. The former, aside from being the highest wicket-taker for the franchise in the tournament’s history (103 in 71 innings), has also led the side to two back-to-back titles.

Fakhar has been pivotal to the side as well – serving as the backbone of the batting line-up. He has accumulated 2525 runs for the side, since 2017. He is only second on the list of top run-getters of HBL PSL in the tournament’s history.

Lahore Qalandars’ poster-boy Haris Rauf has been retained as the Brand Ambassador in the Diamond category. Aside from his fiery pace and the potency he adds to the bowling attack, Haris has been a match-winner for the side since his early days with the franchise.

Haris has taken 66 wickets in 57 innings for Lahore. Sikandar Raza, the Zimbabwean all-rounder, has been retained in Diamond as well. His spin-bowling prowess and finishing ability make him a key player in the Qalandars’ lineup. In 20 games, he has 314 runs and 7 wickets.

Abdullah Shafique (678 runs in 26 innings) has been retained in Gold category, following a category relegation request. Zaman Khan (44 wickets in 35 innings) and Jahandad Khan (88 runs and 5 wickets om 9 matches) have also been retained in Gold.

The two pacers add further dimension to Lahore’s formidable bowling attack, with the latter a promising talent with the bat too.

Namibian all-rounder David Wiese has been retained in Silver. Other than being handy with the bat and the ball, Wiese has been crucial to Lahore’s journey to the top due to his unmatched experience. In 52 games, Wiese has 624 runs and 38 wickets for the side.

Commenting on the retentions, Lahore Qalandars Team Director Sameen Rana said: “Retention isn’t just about player contracts; it’s about building a legacy together, season by season. This is one of the most challenging phases of the league.

These players are not just part of our squad – they are part of our family. Finalizing retentions is never an easy decision because every player who wears the Qalandars jersey holds a special place in our hearts.

“However, the eight players we have retained represent the core of who we are as a team – resilient, fearless, and passionate. Their commitment embodies the spirit of Qalandars and what we stand for on and off the field.

“At the same time, the decision not to retain some players was incredibly tough. They are not just outstanding cricketers but invaluable contributors to the Qalandars family.

We take immense pride in nurturing talent and providing a platform for players to thrive, and we are confident their journeys will continue to inspire and create unforgettable moments wherever they go. They will forever remain an integral part of the Qalandars legacy.”

As anticipation builds for HBL PSL 10, Lahore Qalandars are determined to continue their legacy as one of the most dynamic and successful franchises in the league’s history.