LAHORE: The Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Ramiz Raja has announced to expand the Pakistan Super League (PSL) to Multan, Peshawar, and Quetta from the next edition of the mega event.
While addressing the closing ceremony of the PSL 7, Ramiz announced to expand the marquee event to the next level by hosting the matches in other cities as well.
“We will expand the PSL to Quetta, Peshawar, Multan, and other parts of the country and the world will see the real buzz,” he said.
“Next year, we will have matches in Multan & Peshawar also,” he added.
Later, the PCB Chairman also served as the commentator in the final of the mega event between the home side Lahore Qalandars and the defending champions Multan Sultans.
While talking to Mike Haysman in the commentary panel, Ramiz said he is really happy to have a successful tournament.
“I am very grateful for successfully conducting the PSL 7. Everyone contributed whole-heartedly to making this event a successful one,” he said.
Ramiz also thanked the crowd for their immense support towards the marquee event and making the league a successful one by showing up in large numbers.
“Today is a wonderful festival of PSL. I think the people of Lahore played an important role in making PSL a success,” he said.
“Seeing the enthusiasm of the spectators, it seems that a new stadium should be built in Lahore which can seat 50,000 people,” he added.
PCB Chairman further revealed that he is supporting Qalandars to win the final as his children are with the home side.
Ramiz further commented on the historic tour of Australia after a gap of 24 years, said Australia’s tour to the country is welcoming.
“Australia’s tour to Pakistan is welcoming. It will be a good series for the cricket fans,” he said.
Ramiz went on to term the green shirts as the favorites to win the series against the Kangaroos.
On the other hand, PCB handed out one-year contracts to 100 junior cricketers between 13 and 19 years age bracket as part of PCB’s Junior Development Programme.
In addition to financial assistance, the PCB will invest in the youngsters to help them develop their entire persona, including cricketing skills and education. The 100 contracted players will then be earning monthly retainers of PKR 30,000 each after the contracts come into effect.
The 100 contracts have been divided into five categories:
Total contracts for U-19: 45
Total contracts for U-16: 25
Total contracts for U-13: 15
Special talent/nominated: 10
Contracts for Balochistan: Five