In a shocking turn of events, Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Quetta Gladiators has released their iconic former captain, Sarfaraz Ahmed, marking the end of a nine-year chapter filled with remarkable highs and memorable moments.
For the first time in PSL history, Sarfaraz Ahmed will be part of the PSL draft, slated for January 11, 2025, alongside 510 players from 19 countries. This development has left fans in a state of disbelief and sparked widespread discussion about the franchise’s decision.
Quetta Gladiators’ Retentions for PSL 10
While releasing the veteran wicketkeeper-batsman, the Gladiators retained eight key players for the upcoming season:
- Diamond Category: Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Amir (mentor), Rilee Rossouw.
- Gold Category: Akeal Hosein, Saud Shakeel (brand ambassador), Mohammad Wasim Jr.
- Silver Category: Khwaja Mohammad Nafees, Usman Tariq.
Sarfaraz’s Legacy with Quetta Gladiators
Sarfaraz Ahmed led Quetta Gladiators to their maiden PSL title in 2019 and has been the face of the franchise since its inception. However, his leadership was quietly replaced by South Africa’s Rilee Rossouw in the last season. This latest decision to release him entirely has added fuel to the fire, with fans taking to social media to express their disappointment.
PSL 10 Draft and Tournament Details
The PSL 10 tournament is set to run from April 8 to May 19, 2025. The draft promises intense competition as teams finalize their rosters. Among the retained stars, defending champions Islamabad United have kept their captain Shadab Khan and pace sensation Naseem Shah in the Platinum category. Other franchises have also revealed strong retentions, gearing up for an action-packed season.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
The release of Sarfaraz Ahmed has raised questions about loyalty and team strategy. Fans are eager to see which team will secure the services of this experienced cricketer in the upcoming draft. Will Sarfaraz lead a new team to glory, or will this be the beginning of the end for his PSL career?
Stay tuned for more updates on PSL 10 and the latest cricketing news.