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Lahore Qalandars all-rounder Sikandar Raza has broken his silence on remarks made by Imad Wasim last year, firmly dismissing suggestions that financial incentives drove his dramatic return for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 final.
The controversy dates back to the final last year, when Raza made a last-minute arrival at Lahore Qalandars’ camp just minutes before the toss at Gaddafi Stadium.
The 39-year-old had been in England representing Zimbabwe in a one-off Test against England in Nottingham, casting serious doubt over his availability for the title clash.
Despite the tight turnaround, Raza joined the squad in time to feature against Quetta Gladiators and played a decisive role in securing Qalandars’ third PSL title. Chasing a tricky target, he held his nerve in the final over, smashing a boundary and a six to seal a memorable victory with one ball remaining.
However, his commitment was questioned soon after when Imad Wasim, during an interview, suggested that financial rewards often influence such decisions.
Referring broadly to the demands of franchise cricket, he had remarked that “money can make different things happen,” implying that players are willing to travel extensively and endure fatigue for lucrative opportunities.
“Like Shoaib Akhtar said, money can do things for you,” Imad had remarked.
“If you’re getting paid, you’ll go. I travel a lot too. Sometimes one match ends, and the next day you’re playing another. I have travelled 24 hours straight and gone directly into a match. So yes, money can make different things happen.”
Sikandar Raza has now responded to those comments, making it clear that his decision was rooted in values beyond financial gain. Speaking in a recent interview, the Sialkot-born all-rounder emphasised that respect, honour, and loyalty were the driving forces behind his return.
“Regarding Imad Wasim’s comments about money being my motivation to return and play the PSL final — money was not the motivating factor,” Raza said. “My priorities are respect, honour, and loyalty.”
He further revealed that his participation in the final actually came at a financial cost, as he incurred deductions for the matches he had missed earlier in the tournament.
“In fact, money was deducted from my contract for the matches I missed, so his opinion doesn’t bother me because it isn’t true,” Raza said.
READ: Lahore Qalandars confirm return to Global Super League in Guyana
