Moin eyes same squad for Quetta in PSL 2020

ISLAMABAD: Paying rich tributes to winning combination of Quetta Gladiators, coach Moin Khan wished to retain same combination for the fifth edition of Pakistan Super League (PSL) in 2020.

In an exclusive interview with ‘The News’ on telephone, the jubilant Gladiators’ coach admitted covering all the corners and angles in the best possible way to achieve title.

“You are right as Quetta Gladiators possibly were the only team that showed the true strength in all departments. Be it an opening position, middle order, lower middle order, pace or spin bowling, we managed all the areas well. That is one of the reasons we have emerged champions.”

Moin said there were some doubts in the bowling department when Sunil Narine had to miss the League.

“His replacement Fawad Ahmed chipped in brilliantly, removing all our fears with the exceptional performance.”

Gladiators’ coach wished playing with the same combination in an effort to retain the title in a year time.

“Give me an option and I would not change a single player. But we have our limitations as we can only retain a set number of players and would have to pick the rest from the draft. In case given the option next year, we would prefer picking from the ones that were with us this season.”

Moin praised each and every player who helped Gladiators win the crown.

“We came so near to the title on a couple of occasions but failed at the last hurdle. This time we went all the way. I give credit to exceptional performance of each and every player who represented the team. They gave their heart out. I am proud of every player,” he said.

Quetta’s coach had all praise for Viv Richards and team owner Nadeem Omar.

“The two backed us every minute of the PSL IV. When you have mentor to the level of Richards, you must be having luck at your side also. At 69, he has got so much energy that you always feel and realise his presence every second of the game. This factor has also contributed to our win. Nadeem Omar has a long association with the game and knows well what is required to keep players focused and upbeat all the time.”

To a question on new bowling sensation Mohammad Hasnain, Moin said he saw him during a Karachi T20 League where he got picked for Quetta.

“He has got pace and accuracy and hopefully would go on to serve the country for years to come provided that he works hard on his fitness and maintain his focus. It is really encouraging to see a young pacer contributing to team’s success in his debut league.”

Moin hoped to travel with all available Gladiators players to Quetta once invited by the chief minister.

“Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Kamal will soon invite the PSL winning team to Quetta as the numerous activities have been planned for the team in the provincial capital.”