Former chairman PCB Najam Sethi, excessive commissioner Dr Mohammad Faisal, Lahore Qalandars CEO Atif Rana, COO Sameen Rana, captain Shaheen Shah Afridi pose with PSL trophy together with Qalandars England gamers Sam Billings , Tom Curran at Pakistan Excessive Fee. — PHC/@Pakistanin UK
LONDON: Reigning Pakistan Tremendous League (PSL) champions Lahore Qalandars in an unprecedented transfer introduced their championship trophy to the UK to have fun with their abroad gamers, Sam Billings and Tom Curran, who had missed the ultimate matches of the match.
The celebratory occasion was hosted by Pakistan’s Excessive Commissioner to the UK, Dr Mohammad Faisal, on the Pakistan Excessive Fee in London.
The gathering was attended by key figures from the Qalandars’ administration, together with CEO Atif Rana and COO Sameen Rana, workforce captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, and England-based Qalandars gamers Sam Billings and Tom Curran.
Additionally in attendance have been former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Najam Sethi, journalist Jugnu Mohsin, and members of the Pakistani diaspora and media.
“To win three trophies in four years is not child’s play, but all credit goes to our player development program. A lot of hard work is done to groom young local talent, and their performances have played a major role,” he mentioned.
“Both Sam and Tom missed the final, so we decided to bring the trophy to them instead. This is what makes Qalandars so special — we love to share every moment of joy no matter how small it may loom like with each and every member of the Qalandars family,” Shaheen added, explaining the explanation for bringing the trophy to England.
Sam Billings praised the inclusive and nurturing tradition throughout the franchise, saying: “Sameen and Shaheen create a very unique and special environment. They truly care about each individual, and that’s why you see so many players performing at their best.”
Echoing an identical sentiment, Tom Curran shared: “From day one, it felt like home. Everyone — from management to the players — made us feel welcome. Even in difficult circumstances, it was a pleasure to be part of the team.”
CEO Atif Rana expressed gratitude to the Excessive Fee for internet hosting the occasion. “We’re grateful to Dr Mohammad Faisal for honouring us. We’re here to include our diaspora, especially the youth who follow Lahore Qalandars passionately,” he mentioned, highlighting the assist of the UK-based Pakistani group.
“Due to the tense situation during the tournament, Sam and Tom couldn’t return for the final, but we wanted to make sure they were part of our celebrations,” he added.
Sameen Rana revealed future plans to deepen Qalandars’ engagement with the UK cricketing panorama, saying: “We plan to hold overseas trials here in the UK and collaborate with county clubs through exchange programs. This will help young Pakistani talent gain exposure and possibly represent not just Qalandars but other franchises too.”
Najam Sethi, credited with launching the PSL, mirrored on the workforce’s journey and title origin. “When Atif told me they wanted to name the team ‘Qalandars’, I initially wasn’t a fan. I thought we needed a warrior name. But Atif insisted on highlighting the Sufi tradition,” he mentioned.
“Today, Lahore Qalandars is a household name and a top franchise — and my heart will always stay with them,” he additional added.
Dr Mohammad Faisal, who hosted the gathering, expressed pleasure within the workforce’s accomplishments, saying: “It’s heartwarming to welcome our sports dignitaries. We wanted to host a larger event, but time was short.”
He added: “Lahore Qalandars are doing a fantastic job, and we hope this success continues on the global stage when these players represent their national teams.”
The occasion additionally marked a symbolic gesture by Lahore Qalandars to have fun their dedication to rising cricket each at dwelling and overseas.
