Pakistani Players Eye Sri Lanka Premier T20 League
Pakistani players sidelined from the IPL and the Champions League T20 tournaments are gearing up for the Sri Lanka Premier League.
Pakistan ODI captain Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Akhtar have both confirmed their participation in the tournament while several other players are in on going discussion with the league officials.
According to sources, nearly all Pakistan players, including out-of-favour individuals, are interested in the league with all-rounder Abdul Razzaq, Sohail Tanvir, Kamran Akmal, Umar Akmal, Umar Gul and former captain Shoaib Malik currently in discussions with the SLC.
“I’m in talks with the SLC regarding the league,” wicket-keeper Kamran Akmal told The Express Tribune. “It’s a good event and I will try to avail the chance of playing in the league that will keep me busy.”
Meanwhile, Shoaib Malik, who has been out of international action since August 2010 has also shown interest in the tournament.
The Pakistan Cricket Board has announced it will give an instant go-ahead to the players who wish to take part in the event. “We don’t have any issues as it’s an authorised event and it’s not even clashing with the team’s international schedule,” said PCB spokesperson Nadeem Sarwar.
“My contract is yet to be confirmed but I’ m looking to play cricket whether it’s club or league cricket,” said the former captain. “The Sri Lanka league would be a good option.”
