[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text dp_text_size=”size-4″]Lahore Qalandars, the consecutive champions of two PSL titles, are poised to make their mark once again in the upcoming season. Under the leadership of Shaheen Shah Afridi, the team boasts a star-studded bowling lineup complemented by an equally impressive batting unit. As PSL 9 approaches, let’s delve into the comprehensive analysis of Lahore Qalandars’ squad.
PSL 9 Squad:
The defending champions have retained a formidable squad featuring familiar faces and intriguing new additions. With players like Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Fakhar Zaman, David Wiese, and Shai Hope, Lahore Qalandars present a dream lineup for cricket enthusiasts. However, the absence of star Afghan spinner Rashid Khan has somewhat dampened the team’s spirits.
| Shaheen Shah Afridi(c) | Haris Rauf | David Wiese | Sikandar Raza | Abdullah Shafique |
| Zaman Khan | Mirza Baig | Fakhar Zaman | Sahibzada Farhan | Mohammad Imran |
| Ahsan Bhatti | Dan Lawrence | Jahandad Khan | Syed Faridoun | Shai Hope |
| Kamran Ghulam | Rassie van der Dussen | Bhanuka Rajapaksa | Tayyab Abbas |
Previous PSL Finishes:
Transforming from a team that struggled at the bottom to consecutive champions, Lahore Qalandars, under Shaheen Shah Afridi’s leadership, epitomize resilience, passion, and excellence. As they gear up for the upcoming season, the team aims to secure a third consecutive trophy.
| PSL Edition | Year | Position finished |
| 1 | 2016 | 5th (last) |
| 2 | 2017 | 5th (last) |
| 3 | 2018 | 6th (last) |
| 4 | 2019 | 6th (last) |
| 5 | 2020 | Runner-up |
| 6 | 2021 | 5th (2nd last) |
| 7 | 2022 | Champions |
| 8 | 2023 | Champions |
Strengths:
Fast Bowling Trio:
Lahore Qalandars are renowned for their formidable fast-bowling department. With top-quality pacers like Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Zaman Khan, the team possesses the ability to dismantle strong batting lineups and defend low totals, showcasing a diverse skill set.
| Players | Matches | Wickets | Bowling average |
| Shaheen Shah Afridi | 173 | 244 | 20.91 |
| David Wiese | 360 | 279 | 27.12 |
| Haris Rauf | 184 | 247 | 22.27 |
| Zaman Khan | 83 | 106 | 22.66 |
All-rounders:
The T20 format demands versatility, and Lahore Qalandars have addressed this need by securing highly versatile all-rounders. David Wiese and Sikandar Raza, proven performers for the team, are set to make significant contributions in the upcoming season, despite the absence of Rashid Khan.
| Player | Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Wickets | Bowling Average |
| Dan Lawrence | 115 | 2555 | 26.34 | 142.65 | 43 | 20.6 |
| Kamran Ghulam | 72 | 1498 | 28.26 | 127.05 | 32 | 22 |
| Sikandar Raza | 215 | 4524 | 25.85 | 134.6 | 128 | 26.12 |
| David Wiese | 360 | 4057 | 22.53 | 143.86 | 279 | 27.12 |
Weakness:
Spin Bowling:
Lahore Qalandars, previously reliant on the top-quality leg spin of Rashid Khan, face a setback due to his unavailability owing to an injury. The team lacks a dedicated backup for the spin bowling department, with no specialist included in the squad. The responsibility falls on part-time bowlers like Sikandar Raza and Dan Lawrence, and the team might explore options with emerging players. The absence of Rashid Khan marks spin bowling as Lahore Qalandars’ vulnerability in PSL 9.
| Player Name | Matches | Wickets | Bowl Average | |
| Dan Lawrence | 115 | 43 | 20.6 | |
| Sikandar Raza | 215 | 128 | 26.12 | |
| Syed Faridoun | 1 | 0 | – | |
X-Factor:
South African batsman Rassie van der Dussen, joining Lahore Qalandars from Islamabad United, adds a significant X-factor to the team. Known for his explosive yet consistent batting, van der Dussen has earned a reputation as a match-winner for South Africa. With Fakhar Zaman and Abdullah Shafique in the top order, van der Dussen’s inclusion strengthens Lahore Qalandars’ formidable batting unit.
In conclusion, Lahore Qalandars enter PSL 9 as a team with a potent blend of strengths and a notable weakness in spin bowling. The inclusion of Rassie van der Dussen adds an exciting dimension, and the team aims to overcome challenges to secure another successful campaign in the upcoming season.
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